James Wallace Perry, affectionately known as “Pappy,” was born on February 5, 1936, in Santa Anna, Texas. He peacefully departed this life on January 22, 2026, at Holiday Hill Nursing Home in Coleman, Texas.
A devoted member of the First Baptist Church in Santa Anna, James spent many years contributing his talents and hard work in various fields. He was a skilled crane operator, worked diligently in the oil fields, and dedicated considerable amounts of time to farming. His commitment to his work was matched only by the love he held for his family. James grew up in Santa Anna where he attended school, laying the foundation for a life characterized by dedication and resilience.
James possessed a loving and outgoing personality, making him a friend to all who crossed his path. He had a gift for connecting with people, never meeting a stranger and always welcoming others with open arms. This spirit of kindness and camaraderie endeared him to his community and beyond.
One of James’s proudest accomplishments was marrying Billie Joyce Woodard on June 4, 1955, in Santa Anna. Their union brought immense joy and fulfillment to his life. After Billie’s passing in 1988, James found love again and married Delores Elizabeth Richardson on October 7, 1989. Throughout his life, James held his family close to his heart, cherishing each moment spent with them, and took immense pride in their achievements.
James is survived by his beloved children, Brenda Kay Blair and husband Mike of Santa Anna, Ricky James Perry and wife Rebecca of Phoenix, Arizona, Leashia Faye Perry of Coleman, and Lorrie Ann Perry of Coleman. He is also survived by his five grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and his brother, Robert Perry and wife Dixie of Louisiana, along with several nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, John Calvin Perry and Amanda Huggins Perry; his two wives, Billie Joyce Perry and Delores Perry; and one grandchild, Christopher James Reno.
James Wallace Perry will be remembered not only for his dedication to his work and community but also for the love he radiated to his family and friends. His legacy of kindness and warmth will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
A graveside service celebrating his life will be at 1:30 pm Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the Santa Anna Cemetery Pavilion with Mikes Beets officiating. Services are entrusted to Stevens Funeral Home, 400 W. Pecan Street, in Coleman.
The family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org or to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org.
We invite you to share fond memories and words of condolence with the Perry family by signing the guestbook on James’s tribute page at www.stevensfuneralhome.com. Stevens Funeral Home is honored to serve the Perry family.
