James Norman "Jim" Perkins Sr, 83, passed away peacefully at home on January 20, 2026, with his daughter and granddaughter by his side.

Jim was born on May 3, 1942, in Hartsville, South Carolina, to Henry Perkins and Ruby Mae Johnson.

He was reunited in passing with his parents; his brothers, Henry Perkins and William Perkins; his grandson, Colin Stiles; and the love of his life, his wife and best friend, Emma Lou Perkins. Their devotion to one another was evident to everyone who knew them, and those closest to him knew he was never quite the same after she passed.

He is survived by his children: Angela Perkins Kelley (Johnny), James Perkins Jr., Stanley Perkins (Tammy), Christopher Perkins, and Libby Stiles; his brothers, Melvin Perkins and Ronald Perkins (Charmaine); his grandchildren, Breanne Valletta (Austen), Brice Perkins (Gabby), Brock Perkins, Jace Perkins, Jack Perkins, Kaje Perkins, and Caitlin Stiles; and his great-grandchildren, Olive Valletta and Boone Valletta.

A proud United States Marine Corps veteran, Jim carried his service with him as one of the greatest accomplishments of his life.

Jim loved the outdoors: hunting, fishing, and spending quiet mornings with a cup of coffee in hand. He enjoyed a good time, a good drink, and good company. He was known for telling it like it was. He could be tough, stubborn, and unfiltered, but those who knew him best understood that he loved in his own way and lived life entirely on his own terms.

A joint memorial service honoring the lives of Jim and his beloved wife, Emma Lou, will be held Friday, February 6, 2026, at 3 p.m. in the chapel of Anderson-Underwood Funeral Home. The Reverend Kris Butler will officiate. The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until the hour of service.

To share memories or condolences with the family, visit Mr. Perkins' online guestbook at andersonunderwood.com.

Anderson-Underwood Funeral Home, 2068 Highway 19 North, Dahlonega, GA 30533