John Kenneth Perdue

John Kenneth Perdue was born on June 5, 1951, son of L.A. and Jene Perdue in Duncan, Oklahoma. The youngest child of the family consists of Billie, Larry, and Liz. He attended Fox Public Schools from kindergarten through twelfth grade before continuing his education in college, preparing for a life dedicated to service, faith, family, and community.

At the young age of 16, John began working for William H. Brady, affectionately known as “Chief,” doing whatever was needed to earn a dollar. After completing college and spending time teaching, John returned to work full-time for Brady’s, beginning a career that would span decades. His unwavering dedication and work ethic remained evident until his retirement at the age of 72.

On July 3, 1970, John married the love of his life, Velda Rae Tow. Together they built a life centered on love, faith, and family. They welcomed their first daughter, Belinda—known to family and friends as “Bendie”—on March 19, 1972, and their exceptional son, John Micheal, on August 22, 1975.

John and Velda’s home was always open to those in need. While they raised their own children, they also became parents, mentors, and role models to countless others over the years. Their family was further blessed with Emily Price, born August 1, 2001, Claude Austin, born May 31, 2003, and the youngest daughter Darcy Lynn. The number of lives touched by John’s kindness and guidance is impossible to count, but his impact will be felt for generations, which includes his grandchildren, Hillary Glenae and husband Jerrel, Erick Kade, Kethan Rashad, the “favorite” McKenna Raye husband Garrett, Papa’s “little swamper” Chloe Elizabeth significant other Blayde, John Ross, Gage Micheal, and great grandchildren Trevor Dane, and coming soon Dash Austen.

A devoted servant to his community, John volunteered in ways few ever could. If someone needed help, John was there. He gave freely of his time, talents, and resources without ever expecting anything in return. He supported the local fire department and police department and served for many years as a reserve deputy, dedicating himself to helping others 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

John was known for his generosity and his practical wisdom. He was an excellent teacher—one who believed in learning by doing. If he showed you how to do something once, he expected you to remember it. Often, if a task wasn’t done quickly enough, he would simply do it himself. Behind that tough exterior was a man who genuinely wanted others to succeed.

An avid outdoorsman, John spent much of his life pursuing whitetail deer and fishing waters that did not always cooperate with him. Some of his happiest memories were made in Louisiana, fishing with family and friends. J-Bar Sportsman’s Lodge, along with Jeff Johnson and his family, held a special place in his heart and provided many of his most treasured moments.

John also had a gift for making people smile. He always had a joke ready—often one everyone had heard countless times before. Yet somehow, those around him still found themselves laughing, if only because it was John telling it.

While many words could be used to describe John Kenneth Perdue, one stands above all others: selfless. He lived a life defined by generosity, faith, and service. He never sought recognition, never kept score, and never asked for anything in return. When someone asked what they owed him for a favor, his answer was simple: “Nothing—just time and a kind word.”

John was a man of deep faith whose relationship with God guided every aspect of his life. The phrase “a man of God” is often spoken, but for those who knew John, it was a truth that could be seen in his actions every day. His faith gave him the strength to love, guide, and support not only his family, but an extended community of people who found comfort, wisdom, and encouragement in his presence.

John Kenneth Perdue leaves behind a legacy of love, service, faith, and generosity. Though his absence will be deeply felt, the example he set and the lives he touched will endure forever. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, friend, and servant of God—and he will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.