James A. Perry

SHELBY - James "Jim" Arthur Perry, 59, of Shelby, died Friday, April 9, 2010, at Palliative CareCenter & Hospice of Catawba Valley after a short period of declining health from a head injury. Jim was born Sept. 20, 1950, in Wilkes County to Helen Payne Perry and Ray Robert Perry Sr. He was owner of Perry Painting and Cleaning Services. Many of the fine old homes in Shelby have been restored to their original beauty by Jim's painting talents. Cycling being one of his enjoyable pastimes, Jim made the climb from Spartanburg, S.C., to Mount Mitchell many times. He also was an exceptionally skilled pingpong and pool player. Having won trophies and tournaments in both sports, he was better known by friends and acquaintances in the Shelby area as the "Hustler." A 1969 graduate of Shelby High School, Jim earned a business degree from Cleveland Community College and later served in the U.S. Army. He was a member of the Shelby VFW and Humane Society. Survivors include a sister, Beth Marvin and brother-in-law, Bill Marvin of Hickory, and a brother, Bob Perry of Shelby. He also is survived by nephews, Hal Marvin and wife, Mary Marvin, of Hickory, Lance Marvin of Hickory, and Anderson Marvin and wife, Erin Marvin, of Huntersville; three nieces, including Shannon Griffith and husband, Patrick, of Washington, D.C., Jennifer Reed and husband, Eric, of Lexington, S.C., and Kelly Calhoun and husband, Pat, of Elgin, S.C.; also six great-nieces and great-nephews; and a special friend, Sharon Nichols. The funeral service will be held Tuesday, April 13, 2010, at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Cleveland Funeral Services of Shelby, with the Rev. Jerry Rumfelt officiating. The family will receive friends and relatives one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow the service in Sunset Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Humane Society or Palliative CareCenter & Hospice of Catawba Valley, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, N.C. 28658. Online condolences can be left at www.clevelandfuneralservice.com.