03/19/2026
Ronald Edward Perry, 74, of Center, Texas, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026, in Nacogdoches, Texas. He was born on May 24, 1951, in Corsicana, Texas, to the late Barney Perry and Lola (Higginbotham) Perry.
Graveside service will be held at 12PM on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Oaklawn Memorial Park, Center, Texas, with Charles Conway and James Carroll officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 11AM at Mangum Funeral Home, 420 San Augustine St., Center, Texas.
Ronnie proudly served his country in the United States Army. He married the love of his life, Nancy Griggs, on May 27, 1971, and the two have cherished over 54 years together raising four sons. Ronnie enjoyed time spent with his family. Especially his grandchildren. Each of them held a special key to his heart. Ronnie was a man who held his family at the very center of his life. He was deeply proud of each of them and made sure they knew it. He shared a special bond with his daughters-in-law, whom he loved as his own daughters, welcoming them with open arms.
He was known for his old-fashioned charm, Ronnie carried himself in a way that reflected a simpler time. He was rarely seen without his signature penny loafers paired with white socks- a look that became uniquely his. He preferred life without unnecessary complications, which was perfectly summed up by his trusty flip phone. While it may have driven his family a little crazy, Ronnie stood firm in his belief that a phone was meant to “open, talk, and shut.” True to that, he never once sent a text message.
Above all, Ronnie was fiercely loyal. He was the kind of man who would show up without being asked, stand by those he loved without hesitation, and do anything within his power to help someone in need. His kindness, dependability, and steady presence made a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He retired from Tyson Foods after 35 years of working in dispatch and driving a truck for the feed mill in Tenaha. After retirement Ronnie found his second home driving for the Jones at Ray Jones Chevrolet, Center Motor Company and Center Motor ATV. He drove as long as his health allowed.
He will be remembered for his steadfast love, his quiet strength, and the countless ways he made life better for those around him. Ronnie loved the Lord, served him through his church, and always kept the faith.
Ronnie is survived by:
Loving wife, Nancy Perry
Sons:
Ron Perry and wife Angela
Steven Perry and wife Angela
Tim Perry
Chris Perry and Charla
Grandsons:
Connor Perry
Alex Tidmore
Toby Tidmore
Ayden Champagne
Rylan Whittington
Ky Whittington
Granddaughters:
Keeley Perry
Savannah Perry
Sister-in-laws:
Debra Carroll and husband James
Cathy Conway and husband Charles
Polly Perry
Barbara Perry
Numerous nieces and nephews
He is preceded in death by his parents, Barney and Lola Perry; brothers, Barney “Bo” Perry, Jerry Perry, Don Perry; and sister, Judy Perry.
The family would also like to express sincere thanks to Marlin Jones, Kevin Jones, Josh Wulf, and Jonathan Wulf for allowing Ronnie to drive for Center Motor Company and Ray Jones Cheverolet for many years.
Pallbearers serving will be Ron Perry, Steven Perry, Chris Perry, Tim Perry, Ayden Champagne, Toby Tidmore, Alex Tidmore, Connor Perry, Rylan Whittington, and Ky Whittington.
Honorary pallbearers are Keeley Perry, and Savannah Perry.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
