Contributions to the tribute of Jonathan "Joe" Goforth Perry

H

Sunday, March 24, 2024

“I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories.” —Leo Buscaglia Joe and I attended high school together and shared classes for 4 years. I recently learned of his passing and was saddened to learn the news. He had a wonderful personality and was always kind. May the many memories you have of him bring you comfort. I am deeply sorry for your loss and will keep you in my prayers. Heuguette Bostic BHS Class of 1980

T

Traci Rhyne uploaded photo(s)

Monday, December 11, 2023

I don't know how to start. The friendship of our group got me though so of the toughest times of my life. Oh what great memories. From rollerblading to Foley Beach times, you will never be forgotten. You and your family hold a dear place in my heart. Say hi to JD and I will check on Cathy for you. Until we see each other again know that from the bottom of my heart, I love you and will never forget the great times.

A

Anne Melanson uploaded photo(s)

Thursday, December 7, 2023

Joe was my son-in-law for 31 years. He made my daughter very happy and fathered two wonderful children, Michael and Anna. I have many memories, but will only share a few. He was a very smart man - whenever we had any math problem to solve, or a history question, or a sports question - all we had to do was look at him and he would provide the answer. So he was very intelligent. He could also sleep anywhere - one day after everyone else was in and settled we looked for Joe and he has gone to sleep in the car. Other times he would come in and sit in the hard wooden chair and fall asleep. He also had a wonderful sense of humor and was very quick witted - almost to the moment he left us for Heaven. He was a good man and loved by many, including me and my husband. Thank you Joe, for being a part of my life and family and for making my daughter a very happy wife.

S

Stepen Melanson uploaded photo(s)

Thursday, December 7, 2023

I have a lot of fond memories of Joe- from the time he, Cathy and the kids came to Jackson for our wedding and activities to all the family get togethers for holidays and the beach. Just hanging out talking sports, watching sports, going crabbing(hopefully no heat exhausation) or Joe just going along with whatever weird plan(i.e. serpentarium) we had that day. But there was always one constant, reliable thing I could count on when we were all together -that is Joe taking a nap in a chair in front of some sporting event on the TV(usually accompanied by my Dad), but he would always respond when we yelled from the Hand and Foot game in the other room with an update on score, situation, time left, etc. And even though it seemed like he slept through much of it, he was always well versed in the teams, players, standings, etc. and willing to discuss any time. We will miss you Joe and be thinking of you when we get together for Thanksgiving this year. Say "Hi" to the other Joe.

M

Martha P Dixon posted a condolence

Friday, October 20, 2023

Jonathan Goforth Perry. We were perplexed when we learned the name of our baby brother. The Late Reverend Elijah McCants, a Reformed Episcopal pastor, named him. Did Rev. McCants get the name from the famous Presbyterian evangelist Jonathan Goforth from Canada, the foremost missionary revivalist in early 20th Century China? Or was it a command to Joe—Jonathan, go forth!—to make a positive impression on those he would come in contact with? I believe the latter. From the time of his diagnosis until the end, people have responded positively in many ways, which showed me that he impacted the lives of many. We grew up in a rural area outside of Moncks Corner, SC. We had to become creative to en-tertain ourselves—making a doll out of grass or a slingshot out of a tree limb and a rubber band. If our play woke Joe up, whoever was responsible had to put him back to sleep. That interfered with our fun. If my granddaughter were born back then, I could see her saying under her breath, "Who told you to have another baby?!?" On the other hand, our brother Abraham (Abe) verbalized his thoughts. Joe was crying in Moma’s lap with Paps standing over them. Abe looked at Joe and asked, “Where did he come from?” Abe received a whipping for asking that question that he always remembered. Children were to be seen and not heard. There was a time when Joe had what we called a cursing spirit. He was slick with it; he only did it when Moma and Paps weren't around. Mary, the oldest, approached Moma and told her of Joe’s use of “choice” words. Guess what? Moma did not believe her. Not my baby Joe; don't lie. Well, on this day, Paps did not go to work. Thinking that no adults were in the house, Joe started cursing, and Paps heard him. Joe received a spanking that cured his profanity use, at least for a while. Because I am five years older than my sister Delores (Lo) and eight years older than Joe, Lo and Joe bonded. They had names for each other—Kutchie Plemmons and Quastasta Juicy. They even used a particular song and gestures when our sister Mary prepared their food. Our older brother William, Jr. (Dub) honed his entrepreneurial skills when Paps bought him a hair clipper set. Guess who was the guinea pig? That’s right—Joe. Joe had some interesting haircuts while Dub perfected his skills. In the end, Dub began to make money cutting hair in the neighborhood, thanks to his hair model, Joe. Growing up with one television meant the boys would always watch football on Sunday af-ternoons. I watched my three brothers become students of football, analyzing plays and plotting defensive and offensive schemes. Their memories of facts and statistics were second to none and continue today. Even in the hospital, Joe and I would discuss sports. My husband would look at us and ask, “How do you all remember these stats?" Joe was an avid sports fan, and I had the opportunity to get something for his birthday. It was the Spring Semester of my junior year at South Carolina State University when a recent gradu-ate came to the campus for a visit. I asked for his autograph, and he gave it to me. The autograph belonged to a four-time Super Bowl champion, three-time First Team All-Pro, five-time Pro Bow-ler, a member of his team’s All-Time Team, 2020 inductee to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, strong safety for the Pittsburg Steelers, #31 Donnie Shell. In his senior year in high school, Joe was part of the Advanced English 4 class. The high-light of the year was going to the Spoleto Festival to hear the late great playwright Thomas Lanier Williams III, better known as Tennessee Williams--The Glass Menagerie, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, A Streetcar Named Desire. When I asked him about the lecture, he said Tennessee Williams only “smoked and drank.” He made a great impression on Joe. After high school, Joe served in the Navy for one year and later enrolled in the College of Charleston. There, he formed lifelong friendships. As evident by comments on the website, he was a loyal friend, great co-worker, kind and gentle person, and a faithful member of this church. The best part of Joe is Cathy. We all witnessed the love they shared. As Joe's health started declining in mid-2021, Cathy was there every step of the way. She would leave my house to go to the hospital between 7 and 8 a.m. most weekday mornings to be there when the doctors arrived. Cathy was a staunch advocate for his care. If she had an appointment and could not be there that day, Cathy would find someone to be with Joe so he would never be alone. She was his cheerlead-er, encouraging him always. Catherine Melanson Perry lived her vows: to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part. Thank you, Cathy. Your compassionate, attentive care kept Joe with us a little longer. Anna and Michael, I saw your love for your Dad. You were there by his side, attending to his needs. Whatever you could do for him, you did, and I thank you for it. Two weeks ago, my husband and I went to the hospital when his condition worsened. I asked Joe if he was in right standing with Jesus. He told me yes. I praised God for his response and prayed that God would grant him an easy transition. I know in my heart that God heard my prayer. Well, Joe, you fought a good fight, finished the course, and kept the faith. We celebrate you because you lived. I leave you with the third verse and the refrain of the great hymn written by Lucie Eddie Campbell, “He’ll Understand and Say Well Done.” If when this life of labor is ended, and the reward of the race you have run; Oh! The sweet rest prepared for the faithful; will be His blest and final, “Well Done!” Oh, when I come to the end of my journey, Weary of life and the battle is won; Carrying the staff and the cross of redemption, He'll understand and say, “Well done.” Sleep on, Joe. Cathy, Anna, Michael, your relatives, and friends will work to "see you in the morning." Martha P. Dixon Joe’s Sister

C

Cathy Perry uploaded photo(s)

Monday, October 16, 2023

Memories from Nikki and Stephen

S

Steve Melanson uploaded photo(s)

Sunday, October 15, 2023

I have a lot of fond memories of Joe- from the time he, Cathy and the kids came to Jackson for our wedding and activities to all the family get togethers for holidays and the beach. Just hanging out talking sports, watching sports, going crabbing(hopefully no heat exhausation) or Joe just going along with whatever weird plan(i.e. serpentarium) we had that day. But there was always one constant, reliable thing I could count on when we were all together -that is Joe taking a nap in a chair in front of some sporting event on the TV(usually accompanied by my Dad), but he would always respond when we yelled from the Hand and Foot game in the other room with an update on score, situation, time left, etc. And even though it seemed like he slept through much of it, he was always well versed in the teams, players, standings, etc. and willing to discuss any time. We will miss you Joe and be thinking of you when we get together for Thanksgiving this year. Say "Hi" to the other Joe.

A

Anne Melanson uploaded photo(s)

Sunday, October 15, 2023

Joe was my son-in-law for 31 years. He made my daughter very happy and fathered two wonderful children, Michael and Anna. I have many memories, but will only share a few. He was a very smart man - whenever we had any math problem to solve, or a history question, or a sports question - all we had to do was look at him and he would provide the answer. So he was very intelligent. He could also sleep anywhere - one day after everyone else was in and settled we looked for Joe and he has gone to sleep in the car. Other times he would come in and sit in the hard wooden chair and fall asleep. He also had a wonderful sense of humor and was very quick witted - almost to the moment he left us for Heaven. He was a good man and loved by many, including me and my husband. Thank you Joe, for being a part of my life and family and for making my daughter a very happy wife.

R

Rose Foster posted a condolence

Saturday, October 14, 2023

I have so many wonderful memories of Joe, aka "Kermit," aka "Rug", aka "Joe Joe Bob" LOL. We have shared so many milestones together from our college days, our weddings, and each addition to our nuclear families. WE ARE FAMILY! We have had so many good times and traversed through difficulties in this crazy path called life and I will miss you my friend. You have left a rich legacy of love and kindness that we will continue in your memory. (but I WILL NOT be the "Rug" at our next party LOL) Love you! Rose (aka - Rosie Joe Bob)- Proud member of the Joe Bob Clan

M

Michelle (Missi) Medeiros posted a condolence

Thursday, October 5, 2023

I would like to honor the memory of Joe - also known as Kermit. He was a man defined by his joyful spirit, warmth, loving nature, and a thoughtfulness that brightened all our lives in college when we were part of ΑΦΩ. I remember when Joe and Cathy first started dating. Life took us our separate ways and I was so happy to hear of their enduring love blessed with two beautiful children. As they navigate this world without Joe's smile, compassion, and kindness, I wish them strength to support them through these challenging times.

V

Vanessa Williford posted a condolence

Monday, October 2, 2023

My deepest condolences to the family. The memories will help you get through the difficult days. Vanessa Williford, cousin from Monks Corner - living in DC

L

LeAnne Wolford posted a condolence

Saturday, September 30, 2023

Like so many others here, I met Joe in college when I pledged Alpha Phi Omega. He always had a kind smile, a great laugh, and a fantastic sense of humor. You will be missed.

T

Traci Rhyne uploaded photo(s)

Saturday, September 30, 2023

+ 1

I don't know how to start. The friendship of our group got me though so of the toughest times of my life. Oh what great memories. From rollerblading to Foley Beach times, you will never be forgotten. You and your family hold a dear place in my heart. Say hi to JD and I will check on Cathy for you. Until we see each other again know that from the bottom of my heart, I love you and will never forget the great times.

M

Mary Weaver posted a condolence

Friday, September 29, 2023

It's so hard to say goodbye to someone who you known for so long.....close to 20 years by my count. I know Joe is not suffering now but I will sure miss him at all the cookouts, Christmas Parties and New Years Eve gathering, and game nights. I will even miss the "Fredneck" references. Rest in Peace Joe until we see you gain.

D

Dolores Vigel posted a condolence

Friday, September 29, 2023

When I think of Joe, it takes me back to college. I remember that he was one of many wonderful people I met and became friends with during some of the best years of my life. I remember that he was always kind and friendly and often had us laughing. As my A Phi O brother, I know he was dedicated to serving others and continued that commitment to service working with the Boy Scouts. I hope to honor his memory by continuing to serve others and by being kind and trying to be a better friend.

K

Kelly Blanchard posted a condolence

Friday, September 29, 2023

More than memories of our college days, Kermie was a great friend and father. My husband (Don) and I loved spending many weekends sharing meals and family time. There was always fun, laughter and children running around. - Kelly Purdee Blanchard

J

Jennifer "Dobo" Doboszynski posted a condolence

Thursday, September 28, 2023

I met Kermit (that's how I knew him as) through APhiO at the College of Charleston. He had already graduated and this particular time he came back looking for a volunteer to teach music to someone. I volunteered. He made an impression on me. Maybe it was his smile. Or laugh. but fast forward to about 8 years ago when I was in Greenville, I got a bunch of APhiO people together. Someone said Joe and Cathy were coming. I recognized Cathy's name but had no idea who this Joe person was. When I saw him I was like you're Kermit! I remembered him after all those years. I was glad I got to visit Joe in December when I came down to Charleston for a visit. Trying to share my positive energy/vibes that got me through my health issues. I will always remember that smile and laugh.

C

Caroline Tisdale posted a condolence

Thursday, September 28, 2023

I remember Joe from the College of Charleston and Alpha Phi Omega. Joe and Cathy had graduated by the time I came around, but they still attended some of our dances and service projects (and parties). I did not know Joe well. But I do remember his deep laugh, broad smile, and commitment to helping others. His willingness to help was legendary and he inspired me to keep at it. I am living a life of service today in no small part due to my time in Alpha Phi Omega and the example of Joe. Cathy, and your children, may you rest assured that Joe loved you deeply and will always be watching over you, at least that is my belief. May you find comfort in your friends and family. May Joe rest in the everlasting arms.

K

Karen McKenzie posted a condolence

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Kermit you always made me laugh. We share a very funny Halloween story;) I will never forget our lunches while I was a manager at the Georgetown K-Mart. You left us way too soon! Karen AKA Ducky

S

Sandy Livingston Barboza posted a condolence

Thursday, September 28, 2023

I am so saddened to hear of Joe's passing. I hadn't seen or talked to him in many years, but always held him in the highest regard. We were classmates from 1st grade through high-school graduation, and he was always such a nice person and could always be counted on for a smile and kind word. I'm keeping his family in my prayers. My sincere condolences. Sandy Livingston Barboza BHS class of 1980

T

Tess Brennan posted a condolence

Thursday, September 28, 2023

I always saw Joe as such a joyful person. Shawn and I had the pleasure of being in a reunion group with him and Cathy. My favorite memories of him are when we would talk about our closest moments to God. He always talked about the people that God led him to help through his job. I could tell that helping others brought him such joy. He will be missed dearly but I know I will see my brother Joe again one day as we rejoice together in heaven. ❤️

J

J. Jones posted a condolence

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Dear Perry, offering our deepest condolences to the family, God is close to the brokenhearted, he saves those who are crushed in spirits, may grant you strength and courage as you face the coming days

A

Ardis Smalls posted a condolence

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

To the Perry Family, May God Continue To Bless You All during this time. Sincerely, Ardis W. Smalls Moncks Corner, South Carolina

J

The family of Jonathan "Joe" Goforth Perry uploaded a photo

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

J

Jalawnda Bailey lit a candle

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

It was a pleasure working with Joe, he will be missed dearly.

T

Tina S. Anderson lit a candle

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Well done thy good and faithful servant. You fought a good fight, now take your rest. May the peace of God that surpasses all understanding rest , rule and abide over your family. Thank you for being a wonderful friend and co-worker. We love you but God loves you best. Rest well, my friend, rest well.

A

Allyse Turner lit a candle

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Kermit.. I have SO many memories of you. I remember the day we met. It was at an APhiO meeting and I called you old because you were already in your 20's. It was so rude and awkward, but you didn't let that stop us from having a great friendship in college. You teased me like I was your little sister and I loved you like a brother. I cannot count the number of parties we went to or just hung out and talked. I remember one night sitting on my apartment steps and you told me that you were in love with Cathy. And then I remember your wedding day and how you were over the moon. Every time I picture you, I see that big Kermit smile. And I know I'll see it again one day. I'll never forget you. <3 Allie

L

Lavonia Graham lit a candle

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Sending care and condolence to your family from all in your work family. Joe was a funny guy that I had the pleasure of working with at the SC Department of Aging. My heart goes out to your family during this difficult time. He left behind a legacy to be proud of.

B

Benjamin Mauldin posted a condolence

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Joe was a friend to all that knew him. He was always very kind and compassionate to anyone he helped. I worked with Joe for many years and he loved to help others, especially Seniors. Joe will be missed but never forgotten. My condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace, Joe.

K

Kathy Dickerson posted a condolence

Monday, September 25, 2023

Joe was a great co-worker and friend. Our jobs helped people in need. Joe was always caring and went out of his way to help them. We shared a lot of ideas and talked about how to make life better for those we served. Joe always talked about his wife and children. They meant so much to him. I’m sure he’s smiling in the presence of God. Prayers for his family and the peace that you will see him again someday.

M

Melissa posted a condolence

Monday, September 25, 2023

Joe was a friend to all—I met Joe in College, and we were part of an amazing tribe of friends, of which Joe was a beloved central part. I will remember Joe for his gentle kindness, his inspirational faith, and his thoughtfulness. He will be missed!

F

Flint Weiss posted a condolence

Monday, September 25, 2023

I met Joe while in College as we were part of the same Service Fraternity. He was such a great guy, a service minded individual, always looking to give time and energy to others. My parents interacted with him often while he was with B.S.A and when they found out I knew him from College, they always had great stories of the good work he was doing for the Scouts and families. Joe's medical issues these past couple years have been a long road and I can't begin to imagine what Cathy and family are going through, especially at the end. Cathy and family, you are all deep in our thoughts and we send our love and deepest condolences. Goodspeed and Peace Joe!

A

Annette McClellan posted a condolence

Monday, September 25, 2023

One of the things I appreciated and loved most about Joe (Kermit) was that he was always kind to me. He was already an alumnus when I joined A Phi O in college but he spoke to me every time he came back for an event - and not just a “hey newbie” kind of chat … always much nicer and more in-depth. He and Cathy always made me feel welcome as a pledge and I appreciated their friendship. I will add that I hope his memory is a blessing and a call to action for us all to make our world a kinder place. Godspeed, Joe. You will certainly be missed by all of us who were lucky enough to know you.

S

Susan Huggins posted a condolence

Monday, September 25, 2023

I met Joe in college. It was impossible to not like Joe. He was kind, gentle, always smiling and laughing and always had a twinkle in his eyes. He loved Cathy completely. We were all part of an amazing group of friends brought together with the common goal of serving others to make their lives better. That describes Joe’s life. He lived to serve others and we’re all better for having known him.

D

Debbie Barton posted a condolence

Monday, September 25, 2023

Joe was an amazing person who impacted so many lives. He always had a smile on his face and willing to help. You will be missed greatly. Thank you for all you did to make Charleston a better place.

Jonathan "Joe" Goforth Perry

1962 - 2023

Visitation

Memorial Service

Home | About Us | Funeral Planning | Pre-Planning | Resources | Obituaries

221 Broad Street | Sumter, South Carolina | 29150
Phone: (803) 775-9386 | Fax: (803) 775-2151 | E-mail: bobbymcc123@gmail.com

Jonathan "Joe" Goforth Perry

1962 - 2023

Visitation

Memorial Service

Home | About Us | Funeral Planning | Pre-Planning | Resources | Obituaries

221 Broad Street | Sumter, South Carolina | 29150Phone: (803) 775-9386 | Fax: (803) 775-2151 | E-mail: bobbymcc123@gmail.com

221 Broad Street | Sumter, South Carolina | 29150
Phone: (803) 775-9386 | Fax: (803) 775-2151 | E-mail: bobbymcc123@gmail.com