Obituary

Robert Earl Perkins was born May 27, 1934, in Jonesville, Texas, to the parentage of Samuel Perkins and Viola Daniels. He was lovingly raised by his uncle and aunt, Tommie Singleton, Sr., and Alberta Perkins Singleton. He was equally loved by his step-mother, Gussie Perkins.
Robert began his formal education in Jonesville, Texas; and in 1953, he graduated from Pemberton High School in Marshall, Texas. After high school, he served in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1956. After his enlistment, Robert attended Wiley College in Marshall, Texas. While there, he met the love of his life, Mary Ann Greggs. They were married July 11, 1959, and five children were born to their union: Robert Earl, Jr., Mark Anthony, Christopher Jernard, Sharon Arnetta and Telisa Diana. When Mary married her handsome groom, Robert, she gained a son, Torrin Dewayne Taylor.
Robert's Christian journey started at an early age when he united with Old Border Missionary Baptist Church in Jonesville, Texas. After moving to Dallas, Texas, Robert was a member of Union Hope Primitive Baptist Church. He later moved his membership to Greater Mount Sinai Missionary Baptist Church in Dallas. He was ordained a deacon in 2004 under the pastorship of Steven Jones and remained committed to his duties until poor health. Even in illness, he was devoted to his church family.
Robert's career in the transportation industry spanned over 30 years, retiring from The Kroger Company in 1995. He enjoyed good times with family and friends that involved rhythm and blues concerts, attending professional football and basketball games, walking his big dogs, challenging anyone to a fierce game of dominoes, and traveling domestically and abroad. Additionally, Robert was a gun enthusiast (he had several) and lover of Cadillac sedans (he owned many). He had impeccable style, and it was extremely important for him to present himself well-groomed. He had a great sense of humor, and his quick retorts always drew laughter.
Robert's generosity, loyalty and protection of family was felt by everyone he loved. His grandchildren held a special place in his heart; and if you were around him for any length of time, you heard his pride and saw a glimpse of his enduring love for them.

Waiting at heaven's gates were Robert's parents, Samuel, Viola and Gussie; his Uncle Tommie and Aunt Alberta; two sons, Robert Earl, Jr., and Mark Anthony; and two brothers, Melvin Singleton and Alvin Perkins.
He leaves to cherish an indelible impact and legacy that will be remembered by his lovely wife of nearly 63 years, Mary; two sons, Torrin Dewayne Taylor (Anita) and Christopher Jernard Perkins; two daughters, Sharon Arnetta Montgomery (Lorenzo), Telisa Diana Brown (Casey III); eight grandchildren, Loren Danielle Montgomery, Morgan Simone Montgomery, Casey Brown, IV (Mi), Summer Lisa Brown, Carson Robert Brown, Ashley Elizabeth Perkins, Matthew Christopher Brown and Alaina Isabella Grace Perkins; one brother, Tommie Singleton; four godchildren, Yvette Shepherd, Radford Bowens, Shanequa Randel-Jones and Shawnie Brown; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.