James E. Perry

James E. Perry (97) of Rome, formerly of Atlanta, died Saturday, June 18, 2016. He was a longtime member of Oak Grove United Methodist Church in Decatur. He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years,
Darrine Perry. Jim (J.E.) is survived by daughters, Cheryl Matthews and her husband, Walter, and Donna Stokely and her husband, Jere; five grandchildren and six great grandchildren. In addition, he leaves behind loving sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews.

Jim was a proud veteran of World War II, serving as a Navy flight instructor and fighter pilot in the Pacific theater. He was awarded two Distinguished Flying Crosses. He went on to join the Army Reserves, and ultimately retired with the rank of Colonel. He was employed as a personnel specialist by the Federal Civil Service, and developed the job descriptions and pay scales for the team of scientists in Huntsville, AL, who developed the rockets that launched the United States first space satellite and first series of manned lunar missions. He was later employed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and retired as Chief Personnel Officer. He received degrees from Reinhardt College, Georgia State University, and the University of Oklahoma.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Friday, June 24th, at Oak Grove United Methodist Church with Rev. Louis Miller officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 in the church parlor. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Oak Grove United Methodist Church. A.S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home & Crematory.


Funeral Home:
A. S. Turner & Sons
2773 North Decatur Road
Decatur, GA
30033