Clyde B Perkins

Clyde B. Perkins, age 89, of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2026.

Clyde was born on July 25, 1936, in Senatobia, Mississippi, to the late Douglas Henry Perkins and Lavina Perkins. As the son of a devoted pastor, Clyde's childhood was filled with travel as his family served congregations in various places. Of all the places they lived, he always lovingly referred to Denver, Colorado as "home," as it was where he spent his middle and high school years and formed many cherished memories.

Faith and music were cornerstones of Clyde's life from an early age. Alongside his father's ministry, Clyde served as the song leader at church - the two were often described as a "package deal." Music was not simply something he enjoyed; as he often said, "Music was my life." Gifted with a natural ear for harmony, Clyde was known to get into trouble in music class for singing harmonies instead of the assigned melody. That lifelong love of harmony blossomed into a passion for singing. He was a proud member of the Barbershop Harmony Society and the Music City Chorus, sharing his talent and joy for music with many throughout the years.

Clyde was a faithful member of Owen Chapel Church of Christ. His dedication to serving others extended beyond the church into his professional life. He devoted more than 30 years as a psychologist with Metro Public Schools, where he impacted countless students, families, and colleagues through his compassion, wisdom, and steady presence.

He was preceded in death by his first wife of over 50 years and the mother of his children, Shirley Clipp Perkins; his brother, James Perry Perkins; and his parents.

Clyde is survived by his beloved wife, Linda, with whom he shared a love of travel, evenings at Nashville Symphony concerts, and fellowship at church functions. He is also survived by his children, Beth D'Alessio (Larry) and Van Perkins; his grandchildren, Patton Robarts (Kelsey) and Weston Robarts; his great-grandchildren, Torrey Robarts and Kelton Robarts; his twin sister, Rachel Clanin; and several nieces and nephews.

Clyde will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his servant's heart, his gentle spirit, and the harmony he brought into every room. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Owen Chapel Church of Christ or the Barber Shop Harmony Society.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2026 from 12:00pm to 1:00pm at Owens Chapel Church of Christ, 1011 Franklin Rd, Brentwood, TN 37027. A service will follow beginning at 1:00pm at the same venue. Burial will take place on Friday March 6, 2026 at 2:00pm at Crown Hill Cemetery, 207 S Shelby St, Salem, IN 47167.