Shirley Mae Perry

Shirley Mae Perry, age 89 years, a resident of rural Goreville, passed away Thursday, February 20, 2025 at 6:45 A.M. at her residence. Shirley was born on May 24, 1935 in Williamson County, Illinois. She was the eldest of ten children born to Charles “Lester” and Lucy (Blumenstock) Rodgers. On April 20, 1957, Shirley was united in marriage to Clarence O. Perry in Union County, Illinois. Together, Shirley and Clarence shared almost 68 years of marriage. In addition to her husband, Shirley is survived by: her children – Paula (Scott) Maze of Goreville, Jeff (Missy) Perry of West Frankfort, Pam Perry of Goreville and James (Carol) Perry of Goreville; 9 grandchildren – Rachel Maze, Kenya Davis, Hannah Maze, Justin Perry, Stacey Petro, Tony Bowers Taylor Perry, Logan Perry and Lukas Perry; 22 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren, 4 sisters – Rev. Martha Rodgers, Marjorie Ford and Nancy Landwehr all of Goreville, and Patricia Reynolds of Vienna; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. In addition to her parents, Shirley is preceded in death by: a daughter – Rhonda Jo Perry; and siblings – Rev. Oscar Rodgers Sr., Janice Wollard, Wanda Travelstead, Rev. Mary Rodgers and Retha Rodgers. Shirley was a lifelong, devoted member of Pulleys Mill Apostolic Church, where her unwavering faith was an inspiration to all who knew her. She found peace in reading Christian books and spent time in her Bible each day. She was a dedicated homemaker who found fulfillment in sewing, cooking, canning, and quilting, creating a warm and loving environment for her family. A funeral service honoring the life of Shirley Mae Perry will be held Saturday, February 22, 2025 at 12:00 P.M. at Pulleys Mill Apostolic Church, 9559 Pulleys Mill Rd, Goreville, Illinois. Mrs. Perry’s daughter, Paula Maze, and son, Jeff Perry, will officiate. There will be a time of visitation on Saturday, February 22, 2025 from 10 A.M. until the service hour at 12 P.M. at the church. Burial will be in the Cana Cemetery, north of Goreville. Pastor James Carter will conduct the committal service. Memorials may be made to the Pulleys Mill Apostolic Church. Memorial envelopes will be available at the church or donations may be mailed in care of Bailey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 695, Vienna, Illinois, 62995.

Shirley Mae Perry

May 24, 1935 - February 20, 2025