DORA JEAN “DJ” PERRY

            Dora Jean “DJ” Perry, age 69, of Henderson, Kentucky, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, from a brain aneurysm.  DJ’s loss was completely unexpected, and the family is shocked and deeply saddened.  However, they have found JOY in the fact that she was able to donate a kidney and save another person’s life.

            DJ was born on June 16, 1953, to Gene and Doraetta Neal in Owensboro, Kentucky.  She was preceded in death by both of her parents and an infant daughter, Jennifer.

            She graduated from South Spencer High School.   It was during high school that she met her best friend and the love of her life, Gene.  After marrying in 1972, they moved to Columbus, Indiana, and several more times throughout their 50 year marriage.  DJ’s passion and life’s work was providing a home for Gene and their son Jason.  She was room mother at school and Cub Scout Leader for Jason as well as the neighborhood mom that was always willing to have extra kids around, even into Jason’s college days.  Every place that they lived, DJ found ways to volunteer her time and use her talents as a Master Gardener, accomplished cook, seamstress, and painter/crafter extraordinaire.  She also shared these talents with her son, daughter-in-love, April, and her two grandchildren, Abbie and Jake.  They have many items they will forever cherish that were created with her hands alone or during a day spent together.

            Anyone who knew DJ was well aware of her dedication to going to the gym, rarely missing a day.  However, only a few know that this was born out of a desire to be able to pick up and carry around her grandchildren.  Until she and Gene moved back to Henderson in 2014, Abbie and Jake spent every Spring and Fall break in Morristown, Tennessee, where the law required ice cream to be eaten every night and days filled with games, crafts, and fun.  She did this not only to develop a bond with her grandkids but also in order to support Jason and April, for she knew the importance and the blessing of a strong marriage.

            She is survived by her husband, James “Gene” Perry; her son, Jason Perry and his wife, April, of Henderson, Kentucky; two grandchildren, Abigail and Jacob, both of Henderson, Kentucky; her brother, Steve Neal and his wife, Marilyn, of West Melbourne, Florida; and eleven nieces and nephews.

            In accordance with her wishes, there will be no public funeral.  Instead, her family will celebrate her life the way DJ wanted, together with good food and an abundance of love and laughter.

            Any expressions of sympathy the family is asking that you honor DJ by taking a walk, planting a flower, painting a picture, or enjoying a good meal.  And even better, you enjoy them with your family.

            Rudy-Rowland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

            Online condolences may be made at www.rudyrowland.com.