Walter J. Perkins

Walter James "Joe" Perkins, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend left us peacefully on the morning of July 18, 2025, at the age of 85.
Born on January 25, 1940, in Mossville, Louisiana, to the late Burnell and Grace Perkins, Walter's life was defined by selflessness, dedication, and a deep love for his family, friends, and the passions that brought him joy-especially fishing and hunting.
Walter spent decades as a skilled flooring installer for homes and businesses, sharing his expertise and generosity with all who knew him. He also proudly owned Perkins' Fatburger in Westlake, LA, where he and his wife Gloria welcomed customers like family. Always the first to lend a hand, Walter's presence was felt by everyone around him, whether offering guidance, support, or simply showing up when it mattered most.
A proud athlete in his youth, Walter was a standout hurdle jumper at Mossville High School in the late 50s. He also loved outdoors, particularly bass fishing. As a dedicated member of the Big Cypress Bass Hustlers Fishing Club since 1990, he earned the title of Mr. Bass of the Year three times, alongside many other awards for his fishing achievements. His passion for hunting, especially during deer season, was equally strong.
Walter's family will forever remember him for his unwavering support, kind heart, and infectious joy. He was a quiet, joyful man of great strength-always more focused on helping others than seeking recognition. His love for his family, especially his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, was evident in everything he did. He played a pivotal role in the lives of his oldest three grandchildren-Tyla, Terren, and Trey-always present at sporting events, award ceremonies, and life's celebrations, offering a steady hand and a loving heart as a father-figure and role model.
Walter is survived by his wife of 62 years, Gloria Drake Perkins of Mossville, LA; daughter Terri Perkins Miller of Lake Charles, LA; sons Tony Perkins and Tracy Perkins, both of Palm Springs, CA; grandchildren Tyla Adams, Terren Fontenot, and Royal "Trey" Fontenot all of Houston, TX; India Perkins, Ricky Persuad, and Princess Freeman all of Los Angeles, CA; Kyle Davis and Cameron Davis of Westlake, LA; and great-grandchildren Chance, Casey, and Cayelle Adams, Myla Booker, Peyton, Paxton, and Emory Fontenot, all of Houston, TX. He is also survived by his sister Marie Towner of Palm Springs, CA; brother Robert "Bob" Perkins of Westlake, LA; brother-in-law Matthew Drake (Beth) of Oklahoma; brother-in-law Ervin Perkins of Lake Charles; sister-in-law Barbara Drake of Houston, TX; sister-in-law Gertrude Drake of Lake Charles; brother-in-law Ferman Bellow of Lake Charles; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Burnell and Grace Perkins, sister Mitzi Perkins Porter, brother-in-law Virgil Towner, and son-in-law Albert A. Miller.
A celebration of his life will be held on August 2, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Mossville, LA, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow at the Moss Cemetery.
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