CENTRALIA — Richard L. “Perk” Perkins, 76, of Centralia, passed away Sunday, June 16, 2024 at his home.

He was born August 5, 1947 in Carthage, Illinois, the son of Charles Lester Perkins and Vada Elizabeth (Jones) Perkins. He married Rhonda Cookson on December 14, 2007 and she survives.

In addition to his wife of 16 years: Rhonda Perkins of Centralia, Perk is also survived by his daughter: Stephanie Perkins of Rochester, Illinois; step-sons, Nicholas Hoffman and Dustin Hoffman; grandchildren: Aiden Powers, Cole Powers, Kaylin Hoffman, Lincoln Hoffman and Isaiah Hoffman; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Charles Perkins and wife Kay Perkins; sister, Joyce Hiland and husband Jack.

Perk served in the United States Army from April 3, 1969 to March 23, 1971, where he ranked as a Sergeant. Perk was an amazing musician who could play any instrument, but especially loved playing the steel guitar. He owned Perk’s Music from 2001 to present. He loved old cars, boating, and being with family. Anyone you talk to will tell you Perk was “one of a kind”.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, July 20, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia. Military Honors will be accorded at the Funeral Home by the Centralia American Legion Post 446 and the Centralia VFW Post 2055. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family and will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 N. Sycamore, Centralia, Illinois, 62801 (618) 532-3523, who is honored to be of service to Perk’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com.