Willie Forrest Perkins

Willie Forrest Perkins, a life-long resident of Granville County, North Carolina, was born on June 6, 1943, and passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on May 9, 2025, at the age of 81. Forrest graduated from Oak Hill School, was a proud member of the community, and chose careers where he could employ his mechanical talents, dedicating 30 years of his life working for CertainTeed as a forklift mechanic, before his retirement.

Forrest was proudly “old-school.” He was smart, practical, strong-willed, and placed family first, ensuring these valued traits were passed on to his children. Throughout his life, he found pleasure in music, whether playing his guitar, writing songs, or dancing the night away. Forrest’s hobbies included gardening, bird-watching, and an enthusiastic enjoyment of sports, especially NASCAR and anything UNC Tarheels. Many of his friends will remember him fondly for his sense of humor as he loved to be surrounded by laughter. His spirit will live on in the memories of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Family was at the heart of Forrest’s life. He is survived by his loving children, Tammy Raymer (Michael), Steven Forrest Perkins (Donna), and David Michael Perkins (Lorrie). He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Brittany Causey (Ben), Chasity Nealon (Michael), Kaleigh Perkins, Luke Perkins, Ambrea Claiborne (Jason Johnson), and Michaela Nance (Jason). In addition, Forrest delighted in being a great-grandfather to five great-grandchildren.

Forrest is also survived by his brothers, Bobby and Wilbur Perkins. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Ernest Durand Perkins and Alma Smart Perkins, as well as two brothers, Raley and Reggie and two sisters Celia Brown and Mary Brown.

Family and friends are invited to honor Forrest’s life with a viewing held at Amis Chapel Baptist Church in Oxford, North Carolina, on May 15, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM, followed by a funeral service commemorating his life at 11:00 a.m., concluding with a burial at the church and Masonic rites.

Willie Forrest Perkins, a dedicated father, friend, brother and Mason, will be dearly missed but forever cherished in the memories of those he touched. Flowers are welcomed or donations may be made in his memory to the Masonic Home for Children of Oxford.

The Perkins family is being cared for by Gentry-Newell & Vaughan of 503 College Street, Oxford, NC 27565.