Robert “Bob” Perry, 82, a lifelong resident of Anahuac, Texas, passed away peacefully on the evening of Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 4, 1941, in Anahuac, Texas, to the late Paul LaVere and Mary Ellen Smith Perry, Bob’s life was a testament to dedication, service, and love.
Bob graduated from Anahuac High School with the class of 1960, where he was known for his athletic prowess and leadership on the basketball and football fields. He earned a scholarship to Lamar Tech in Beaumont, where he continued to shine in sports and graduated in 1964 with his Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and Biology. His thirst for knowledge and passion for teaching led him to earn a Master’s in Education from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas.
Bob was drafted into the military. A proud veteran, he served his country honorably as a Sergeant in the United States Army in Korea, spending 13 months securing the 38th Parallel. His military service exemplified his dedication to duty and his commitment to protecting his fellow citizens.
For over 40 years, Bob was a devoted member of the Church of Christ Whites Park, where his unwavering faith in the Lord was a cornerstone of his life. His commitment to his community was further demonstrated through his 15-year membership in the Anahuac Lions Club, where he played a crucial role in the flag program. Additionally, he served as a Texas poll worker, fulfilling the role of an election judge with integrity and diligence.
Bob’s true passion and dedication were evident in his role as an educator. He dedicated 35 years to molding young minds as a principal, teacher, and coach. His career began at Queens Intermediate in Pasadena ISD, and he later worked at South Houston High School, where he made a significant impact as the football and basketball coach. Bob then moved to Hitchcock ISD as the head basketball coach before finishing his illustrious career in Anahuac ISD.
From a young age, Bob exhibited a strong work ethic. At 11, he began working in the rice fields, flagging for planes to drop fertilizer. This early experience shaped his character, instilling in him the values of hard work and dedication that he carried throughout his life.
Bob was a family man known for his kindness, generosity, and calm demeanor. Bob’s comforting presence made everyone feel that everything would be okay when he was around. He never overreacted to situations and was always a source of wisdom and support for those around him.
Known for his sense of humor and his gift for storytelling, Bob’s stories, whether actual or embellished, brought joy and laughter to all who enjoyed hearing them.
Bob’s hobbies included vegetable and floral gardening, which he pursued with great passion and skill. In his younger years, he loved duck hunting and was known as a World War II history buff, always eager to share his knowledge and interests with others.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings, Mary Ann Perry, Judy Roberson, Jerry Lou Campbell, Gloria Schroeder, and Laura Ragan. Bob leaves behind to cherish his loving memory his devoted wife of 60 years, Fran Perry of Anahuac; his children, Sean Perry (Rhonna) of Anahuac, and Shannon Perry of Anahuac, with the support of Lance Sherman; his beloved grandchildren, Kyle Perry, Sage Sherman, and Erynne Perry; his brothers, Paul Radoh Perry of Fort Worth, and James Lee Perry (Mary) of Rosamond, California; numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of other loving relatives and friends.
Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Kyle Perry, Sage Sherman, Joel Campbell, Josh Campbell, Jamie Campbell, Ryan Perry, Butch Roberson, Radoh Perry, Johnny Perry, and Wiley Ray Carter.
Friends are invited to visit with the family at 10 AM on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at the First Baptist Church Anahuac, 405 Magnolia Street S. in Anahuac. A celebration of Bob’s life will begin at the church at 11 AM, with Pastor Tim King officiating.
Bob will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of love, service, and dedication will continue to inspire those who had the honor of knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Bob’s honor to the Coach Bob Perry Memorial Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 638, Anahuac, Texas 77514, or taken to the AISD Administration Building.
Condolences can be shared online with the family by visiting http://www.sterlingfuneralhome.com
To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.