Marion H. Perkins

Marion Hazel Stephens Perkins, 90, passed away Monday, April 29, 2024. She was born on November 5, 1933, to Willis L. and Florence E. Brock Stephens in Trumann, Arkansas. She grew up on a small farm south of town with a large extended family of Brocks and Stephens. With several teachers in the family, education - including piano - was important. Her parents were determined that their daughter would attend college - in particular, Harding College. In 1951, Marion graduated Trumann High School at the age of 17 and was off to Harding College - now University - where she met many lifelong friends. In 1955, she graduated with a degree in fashion merchandising.  

After graduation, Marion moved to St. Louis, Missouri, and worked at Stix, Baer & Fuller, a regional department store. On a blind date, she met H. George Perkins. After their first date, George went home and told his mother, “Mom, I have met the girl that I am going to marry.” It was the best decision of his life. The couple was married on September 8, 1956, in the front yard of the family home in Trumann. After George’s graduation from chiropractic school, the couple moved to Jonesboro where they would establish a very successful chiropractic practice that continued for almost 40 years.  

On May 6, 1962, Marion and George welcomed their daughter, Lana Claire. Lana was followed by a brother, George Stephens Brant, on April 16, 1964, and their family was complete. In 1968, the family moved to Little Rock and then to Huntsville, Alabama after a few years. Marion and George returned to Jonesboro in 1971 where George resumed his chiropractic practice. During this time, Marion managed George’s practice and was an active mother to her children. At the office, Marion would tease and joke with the patients. Many times, George would hear a commotion and come out of a treatment room only to find Marion cutting up and joking with the patients. She loved them, and they loved her. Their patients became friends and family.

On July 30, 1988, Marion’s first grandchild, Laura Anne Young Murphree, was added to the family. William Stephens David Young was born on September 30, 1990. Her grandchildren were one of the best things of her life. After her retirement, Marion dedicated her life and time to her family.  

Throughout her life, Marion was known for her quick wit and her sense of humor. She accepted people for who they were and forged personal relationships that lasted a lifetime. Even in her final days, she was teasing and joking with nurses and caretakers. It was at this time that she was at her best. Mother showed us that God is not finished with you until your last breath.

Marion was a lifelong Christian. Her faith was very important to her and she made sure to instill that love for God in her children and family. She attended Southwest Church of Christ for over 50 years and always supported her beloved Harding University. Marion loved old houses, antiques, and history. She was a long time member of Daughters of the American Revolution.  

In addition to her parents, Marion was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years and an infant son. Marion is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Lana C. and Steve Purtee, and her son, G. S. Brant Perkins, as well as her granddaughter, Laura A. Murphree (Preston) and grandson, William S. D. Young (Cortne), a great-grandson, George P. Murphree, and great-granddaughters, Claire L. Young, and soon to be born, Madeline C. Murphree. Marion is also survived by very dear first cousins, Mary Lee Cunningham and Curtis Brock, and many other friends and family members.

The family is honored that Scott Sanders, Dean Lee, Steve Purtee, Chris Harrell, William Young, and Preston Murphree have agreed to serve as pallbearers. Agreeing to serve as honorary pallbearers are Jim Burton, Dr. Jim Sanders, Dr. Doug Maglothin, Dr. Jim Rowe (posthumously), Murray Cooper, and Matthew Cooper.

A celebration of her life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at Southwest Church of Christ, 1601 James St., in Jonesboro with Dr. Jimmy Adcox officiating. Visitation will immediately precede the service at the church beginning at 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. A graveside service will follow at Jonesboro Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Gregg-Langford Bookout Funeral Home.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to Dr. Craig McDaniel, the staff at St. Bernard’s Village, St. Bernards Medical Center and the Cottages at Belle Meade for all of their love and the kindnesses shown to Marion. The family would like to extend a special thank you to her caregivers from Visiting Angels. Your love and friendship gave meaning to her life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider Children’s Homes, Inc., 5515 Walcott Road, Paragould, AR 72450, Southwest Church of Christ or a charity of your choice.