of Elaine, AR

January 26, 1934 - January 24, 2022

Joe Perkins of Elaine, Arkansas, passed away Monday, January 24th, 2022 at the age of 87. He died peacefully at home with his loving daughters and caregiver by his side. Mr. Perkins was born in Lexington, TN on January 26, 1934 to Lester F. Perkins and Golden Rogers Perkins. He attended Dell High School in Dell Arkansas. After moving to Lambrook in 1953, Joe began his farming career. He expanded his farm operation into Louisiana in 1963. At the age of 59, he retired. During retirement he helped many people such as neighbors in need of mowed yards. He also maintained a huge garden which he shared with lots of family and friends. His tomatoes were deemed the best in Arkansas by his friends. He accepted the compliments with humility and a smile. Most of all Joe was known for great hugs, lending a helping hand and giving words of encouragement. He knew how to say "I Love You" and always made sure that the ones he loved knew it. He was the best "Pop" ever! (Just ask one of his great grandchildren).

On August 27, 1952, he married the love of his life, Helen Workman Perkins. To their union were born three daughters who survive him, Becky Ward (husband, Mike) of Elaine, Vicky Crisp (husband Curtis) of Elaine, and Linda Jo Short (husband Chester) of Greenville, MS; four grandchildren, Casey Ripper (husband, John), Eric Benefield (wife, Jessica), Jason Short(wife, Kim), Jessica Short Hammons; ten great grandchildren, Alexis Henry, Paislee, Auby and Owen Short, Grant Hammons, Jackson Benefield, Gracie Willingham, Jasper, Christian and Gage Ripper; great-great granddaughter, Adalynn Ripper; two brothers, Larry and Clois Perkins; one sister, Brenda Bethune; and one sister-in-law, Bernell Baugher.

Joe loved God, his family, friends, and hardly ever met a stranger. Hunting and fishing with the girls and his grandchildren was a joy for all and provided them with cherished memories. One of the best things was that Joe never hesitated to let those he loved know it or how proud he was of them. To say he will be missed is the ultimate of under statements. His endearing smile, infectious laughter (especially when telling his and Nana's (Helen's) humorous stories), mischievous sparkling eyes and trips with family and friends will always be cherished memories.

Joe was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Helen Workman Perkins; grandson, Brent Ward; parents, Lester and Golden Perkins; one brother, Gene Perkins; and four sisters, Opal Brown, Ruby Stallings, Betty Barrentine, and Wilma Sue Perkins.

Celebration of Life will be Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at Elaine Baptist Church in Elaine, AR. Visitation will be at 1:00pm with service following at 2:00pm. Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Park in Barton, AR. Brother Luke Watson will officiate.

Pallbearers are Shea Aitken, Eric Benefield, Jamie Bethune, Brian McDuffie, Jasper Ripper, John Ripper, and Jason Short.

Honorary pallbearers are James Byrd, L.K. Holt, Murrell Montgomery, and James Tucker.

Memorials may be made in his memory to:
Elaine Baptist Church- 200 Main St., Elaine, AR 72333
Arms of Mercy- PO Box 4691, Greenville, MS 38703
St. Jude's Children's Hospital- 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105

How blest are they who trust in Christ
When we and those we love must part;
We yield them up, for go they must,
But so not lose them from our heart.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Citizens Funeral Home
508 East Plaza Street
West Helena, AR  72390
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com