John Thomas Perry, Jr.

John Thomas Perry, Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on July 12, 2025, at the age of 69. Born on January 18, 1956, in Lafayette, Alabama, Tommy was raised in Opelika, where he laid the foundation for a life full of energy, laughter, and generosity.

A proud graduate of Opelika High School, Tommy was a standout athlete, serving as captain of the football team and competing in wrestling and track. His athletic talent and determination earned him a walk-on spot with the Auburn University football team, where he carried his love of the game onto the field and into a lifelong devotion to the Auburn Tigers.

After college, Tommy began working for Flowers Industries (Sunbeam) in Opelika. His leadership and dedication quickly became evident, and over the years, he rose through the ranks as the company evolved, eventually serving as Plant Manager after Flowers Industries acquired Keebler Cookies. His career took him across the South, to Wisconsin and Illinois before retiring in 2018 and settling in Warner Robins, Georgia.

Tommy was cherished for his friendly spirit, sharp sense of humor, and endless supply of classic dad jokes. A gifted storyteller, he could captivate a room with a tale and leave everyone laughing by the end.

A devoted volunteer, Tommy gave many years of service to the Boy Scouts of America, cherishing the time spent camping, teaching, and bonding with his sons. He also shared in his wife Debbie’s passion for historical reenactments, particularly those of the 1700s and early 1800s, often participating and lending a helping hand.

Tommy’s life was one of deep love—for his family, for Auburn football, and for the joy of making people smile. His legacy lives on through the stories he told, the values he instilled, and the lives he touched.

He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. War Eagle!

Tommy was preceded in death by his mother, Shirley Sanders Perry.

His memory will forever be treasured by his wife, Debra Black Perry; sons, Jonathan Grady Perry (Dr. Lindsay Barnes Perry) of Fayetteville, AR, Joshua Kevin Perry of Bonaire, GA, Jacob Kyle Perry (Andrea Perry) of Fayetteville, AR, and Jeffrey Thomas Perry of Bonaire, GA; granddaughter, Allie Marie Perry; father, John Thomas Perry, Sr.; sisters, Debbie Ann Perry Baker, and Donna Perry Phillips (Don); and nieces and nephews, Melanie (Brandon Luster), Mark, Baker and Amanda Phillips.

A memorial service honoring Tommy’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 19, 2025, in the chapel of McCullough Funeral Home. Afterward, Tommy will be laid to rest privately.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests memorial donations be given in memory of Tommy Thomas Perry, Jr. to Pioneer Museum of Alabama by visiting https://pioneer-museum-of-alabama.square.site/ .

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.