Joan Perry entered into her eternal rest early in the morning on Friday, August 25, 2017. Joan was born in Havana, KS, January 6, 1933 to Otis J. and Gladys Hobson.
A fiercely independent strong woman, she was loved and revered by her family.
She leaves behind one son, Jeff Perry and wife, Sandy; one daughter, Jacci Perry-Ryan and her husband, Max; she had two grandchildren, Jennifer Ann Cross and Amber Nail; 7 great-grandchildren and many long-time friends and business associates.
She will be missed by all, especially her radiant smile and engaging personality. Her work life began at age 13 when she was an operator for her parents telephone company, Madison County Telephone Company. In the days of shared lines, you can bet she knew everyone’s secrets. After working in the county clerk’s office for a period of time, she ran for Washington County Treasurer in 1975, beating three men for the post at a time when women were unlikely winners in the political arena. For the next 24 years she ran unopposed except for one election, a testimony to her integrity and the exemplary job she did. She was always willing to help with whatever was before her around the county office, including tackling a prisoner attempting to escape after his sentence was pronounced. Joan was truly a yellow dog Democrat, but she liked to watch Fox News, maybe a testimony to an inquisitive mind that liked to consider all sides of an issue. She retired in 1999 and began traveling, first to Australia for a month and then took one of her granddaughters on a trip to Greece as a college graduation present. Joan was a member of the Goshen United Methodist Church and for many years held the post of treasurer and was also on the board of the Goshen Fire Department, having lived there since 1973. She loved spending time with her family, mowing her yard and reading about and participating in area political workings. She was also a lifetime member of Eastern Star.
There will be a visitation from 5-7 P.M. on Monday, August 28, 2017 at Beard’s Chapel.
Funeral services will be 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, August 29, 2017 at Goshen United Methodist Church with Reverend John Humphries officiating. Interment will follow at Sonora Cemetery under the direction of Beard’s Chapel.
Joan has requested that memorials be given to the Goshen United Methodist Church, 122 E. Bowen Blvd, Goshen, AR. 72735 or the Goshen Fire Department, 124 Church St, Goshen, AR. 72735.
Jacci & Jeff,
I have so many good memories. My prayers and love are with you both.
Condolences to Jeff, Jacci and all of the family…
My thoughts and prayers are with the family as you deal with your loss. Jacci and Max hugs and prayers. Love Laurie
Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you celebrate her life and mourn your loss. She will remain alive in all the hearts she touched. Debbie and Buddy
So Sorry for your loss my dad was a yellow dog Democrat. She sounded like a awesome lady.prayers for the family!
Prayers are with Jacci and family. She put up a hard battle and has earned this peaceful rest. Blessings to all.
We met in high school and have been forever friends. Being 20 days older than I am I never let her forget it. I love this girl and her smile.
Jacki,Sandy I’m truly sorry for your loss. I miss seeing her in our bench at church. I have a empty place in my heart but I know yours is greater. I feel like she’s looking down at us laughing. Prayers to you
Sonny and I send our condolences to the family. Joan was a dear friend, and was loved by her church family. We will all miss her very much!
Judi and Sonny Sartwell
We are truly sorry for the loss of your loved one. May God wrap the family of Joan in his arms and give you comfort during this dreadful and sad time. Our thoughts and prayers will continue for all of you. Just know that God is the Comforter and you can lean on Him.
With Love and Prayers
John & Brenda
Sending heartfelt sympathy to the family.
Jacci & Family,
It was an honor for our caregivers to care for your wonderful mom…She was beautiful and full of spunk! Thank you for the privilege of letting our team be a part of the most sacred, intimate moments of Joan’s final days before she left for her heavenly home. Our office is praying for grace and strength, love and rest for all of you!
Good Shepherd Senior Care, Chip & Lory, Jami, Terrie, and Sherrie
I served as a county treasurer during the time that Joan was a county treasurer. We had many good learning times at meetings – and a lot of laughs. I remember that independent streak she had – but most of all her smile, her tenacity, and her desire to serve Washington County to the best of her ability. I don’t believe Joan ever met a stranger. She was so engaging. I am so glad I can call Joan Perry – “friend”.
Eddie A. Jones
Pocahontas, AR
Randolph County
Sorry to hear of Joan’s passing. Prayers for the family. I worked for the County while she was in office and she was a grand lady!
May GOD comfort your family in this time. May you also have great joy in celebration of such a wonderful Mom and friend of her life and the new eternal life she has entered into!
Jeff and Jacci, just read about your Mom’s passing. I have known the Perry family for many years. Joan was one of a kind,a great Lady. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
Joan was always so helpful to me, advice and encouragement.
I am very sorry I missed the service, trip out of town.
Sue Madison
My thoughts and prayers to all the family. Joan was a beautiful lady. HSVS classmate.