Gayden Perkins, Sr., A resident of Zachary, LA, passed away on Friday, January 1, 2021 at the age of 97. He was a decorated United States Army World War II Veteran; and was awarded a Bronze Star Metal for heroic service during combat. After being honorably discharged from the Army, he was employed by Laborers Local Union 1177 until he retired. He was a member of Fairview Baptist Church in Ethel, LA, where he served as chairman of the deacon board for over 40 years. Deacon Perkins is survived by 12 children, namely Willie J. Perkins(Joyce), Donald R. Perkins (Tina), Sidney A. Perkins, John L. Perkins(Helen), Leroy Perkins, Sylvester Perkins, Sr. (Janice), Richard D. Perkins (Wanda), George L. Perkins, MacArthur Perkins, Jacqueline A. Perkins, Ida D. Perkins Hill, Brunetta Perkins Nalls (Chris). He will be deeply missed by his 23 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He is preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Ida Lee Perkins; both parents, Bessie McKneely and John Perkins; stepfather, Leander McKneely (by whom he was raised); father and mother-in law, Flander and Elnora Brooks; eldest son, Gayden Perkins, Jr.; and sister. Johnnie Mae Perkins Spann. A walk-thru visitation will be held at Richardson Funeral Home, 11816 Jackson Street, Clinton, LA on Friday, January 8, 2021 from 5-7pm. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, January 9, 2021 at 11am at Fairview Baptist Church (attendance will be limited to immediate family members only due to covid-19 Pandemic). The service will be conducted by Rev. Barry Sterling, Sr. Interment at Greenbriar Cemetery immediately following the funeral services. Arrangements entrusted to Richardson Funeral Home of Clinton (225) 683-5222.