SPARTA – Jimmie Ray Perkins, 84, of Sparta, passed away on Monday, September 14, 2020, at St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Belleville.

Jimmie was born in Campbell, Missouri, on May 2, 1936, the son of Charley J. and Mary May Goldsmith Perkins.  He married Alice Marie Gibson on December 27, 1959, at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Sparta, Illinois.  He was a Veteran of the US Army.  Jimmie was a Bus Driver for Gulf Transport, Coleman Tour Transport, and Eggemeyer Bus Service and he was a Farmer.

Jimmie is survived by his wife, Alice Perkins of Sparta; children, Patty (James) Kenney of St. Louis, MO, Jimmy Perkins of St. Louis, MO, Charles (JoLeah) Perkins of St. Louis, MO, and John (Kristen) Perkins of Madison, WI; grandchildren, Margaret "Maggie" Perkins, Patrick Kenney, Campbell Kenney, Henry Perkins and Leo Perkins; brother-in-law, Bert Gibson, Sr. of Sparta; and sister-in-law, Cleta Gibson of Sparta.

Jimmie was preceded in death by his Parents; and brothers and sisters.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, private graveside services will be held at Union Cemetery, Sparta, with Rev. Steve Duncan officiating.  Burial will follow.  Memorials may be given to Leukemia/Lymphoma Society.