The Obituary
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”II Timothy 4:7 (KJV)
Earl Wayne Perry was born on June 15, 1956, in Gadsden, Alabama, to the late Emma Lou Perry and Arbie James Hudson. On Friday, September 4, 2026, Earl transitioned from this earthly life, leaving behind a beautiful legacy of love, faith, service, strength, and devotion to family.
Earl was devotedly raised by his beloved aunt and uncle, Dan and Mammie Daniels. He received his education in the Gadsden City Schools System. He graduated from Emma Sansom High School in 1973 and later attended Stillman College. At the young age of 17, Earl answered the call to serve his country and began what would become a distinguished military career. He proudly served a combined 21 years in the United States Army and the Army National Guard. His commitment to service reflected the discipline, strength, and dedication that would characterize his life.
Following his military service, Earl continued his commitment to hard work and excellence. He served 21 years at the Anniston Army Depot before continuing his career with Pemco Aeroplex in Birmingham, Alabama, where he worked for an additional 16 years. Throughout his career, Earl demonstrated a strong work ethic and an unwavering commitment to providing for and caring for those he loved.
Earl had a lifelong love for sports and was always ready to cheer for his favorite teams. He was a devoted Dallas Cowboys and Boston Celtics fan and had a deep passion for the Alabama Crimson Tide. Whether watching a game, talking sports, or simply spending time with family and friends, Earl enjoyed the moments that brought people together.
Faith was also central to Earl’s journey. He was a longtime member of Handy Chapel A.M.E. Church. After relocating to Birmingham, Alabama, he began attending A.O.H. Cathedral of the Cross, where he continued his walk of faith.
Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Emma Lou Perry and Arbie James Hudson; his beloved aunt and uncle, Dan and Mammie Daniels; one brother, John Arthur Perry; and three sisters, Carrie Hudson, Mary Hudson, and Veronica Hoyett.
Those left to cherish his memory and carry forward his legacy include his devoted wife of 25 years, Debra Perry; three loving daughters, Tanyeka Boley, Mandisa Perry, and LaToya White; three beloved grandchildren, Kalyn, Carson, and Grayson; one precious great-granddaughter, Kollyns; two sisters, Reba Harris and Rebecca Buggs; two brothers-in-law, Abram Hoyett and Carl Harris; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
Earl also leaves treasured memories with his special cousin, Pinnie Hunter and Jean Lawson; special friends, Maria Perry, Jack Macraney, Don and Dot Taylor, Avery Trimble, Oscar Ash, and Kenny Green and special classmates, Johnathan Reeves and Tyrone Snow.
Earl’s earthly journey was marked by service, sacrifice, hard work, faith, and love for his family. For more than two decades, he proudly served his country. For many more years, he faithfully worked and provided for his family. Yet beyond his accomplishments, Earl’s greatest legacy will be found in the lives of the people who loved him—the wife who walked beside him, the daughters he helped guide, the grandchildren and great-granddaughter who carry his legacy forward, and the family and friends whose lives were enriched simply because he was a part of them.
Although our hearts are heavy and his presence will be deeply missed, we find comfort in knowing that a life so meaningful does not end with goodbye. Earl’s voice, his laughter, his wisdom, his love of family, and the memories created through the years will continue to live within the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
His work on this side is complete. His race has been run. His legacy has been established. And now, we lovingly release him from our hands while forever holding him in our hearts.
Rest well, Earl. Your life was a blessing, your memory is a treasure, and your legacy will live on for generations to come.
Premier Provider of Professional Funeral Services:
West Gadsden Funeral Home, Inc. 256.549.0004
Send flowers to the service of Earl Wayne Perry
RIP in Peace My Friend every time you were in Home Depot we Hug and talked about our Home Town. Sympathy for Your Loving Family. N.Stokes
Sorry for your lost praying that the Lord keep your Family in his Holy Spirit. Love 💜you all!!! Lois, Bev and Family
I'm truly, truly sorry for the family loss. I will keep everyone in prayer.
Whew, this hit me hard! I've known you since Disa and I became friends in 3rd grade. It has always been Daddy's Earl! Family, I'm praying for the type of strength that surpasses ALL understanding. I love you all😘
~Tamala
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.