Addie (Thomas) Perry

Funeral services for Mrs. Addie T. Perry, age 94, will be conducted on Saturday, July 27, 2019 at 11:00 AM at Bethlehem Baptist Church.  Burial will follow in Newberry Memorial Gardens.

Mrs. Addie Thomas Perry, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John and Sadie Thomas, was born December 17, 1924 in Abbeville South Carolina.  She entered the arms of Jesus, Tuesday, July 23, 2019.  She was blessed with 94 years of life in which she touched so many lives.  She provided a great foundation by teaching life’s valuable lessons such as to live life with integrity, learn something new each day, be respectful and kind to each other, and to always pray!

Mrs. Perry attend public school in Abbeville South Carolina and was a 1950 graduate of Benedict College in Columbia South Carolina where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in English and French.  She continued her education at Rutgers University and North Carolina Agriculture and Technology by obtaining a Master’s Degree in Education in 1970. 

Mrs. Perry was an educator with a passion of ensuring her students excelled.  She was a strong advocate for the students; therefore, she taught valuable life-skills beyond the classroom.  She taught not only English but French as well for nearly 35 years in multiple schools such as Carver High School, Gallman High School, and Newberry Junior High School.  She was a pioneer during times of segregation and led the way of ensuring all children received equal educational opportunities. She often talked with her former students who gladly joked about her sternness which made them a better student….for which they often thanked her!! 

While growing up in Abbeville SC, she accepted Christ and was baptized at an early age at Campfield Baptist Church.  Her love for Christ led her to teaching Sunday School and singing in the choir.  For over 20 years at Welch Zion Baptist Church, she served on the Pulpit Aid, Mother and Deconess Boards, along with singing in the choir.  Upon her passing, she was a dedicated member of Bethlehem Baptist Church where she continued to worship the Lord by serving His people.  She was a member of the Senior Choir, Deaconess Board, and taught Vacation Bible School. 

Throughout her life’s journey, she influenced so many people in the church, community, and school system.  She was a mentor to everyone and loved by all!!  She was a life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.

Mrs. Perry was a loving and dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and friend.  She was married to the late Mr. Theodore Perry for nearly 50 years upon his death in February 2007.  To this union, they were blessed with two lovely daughters; Ms. Sharon Perry Delaney of Newberry SC and Mrs. Lisa Perry Smith of Arlington VA.  In addition to her daughters, she leaves to cherish her precious memories, four grandchildren and one great grandchild who were her pride and joy: Mr. Michael Thomas Delaney (Heidi) of South Mills, NC; Miss Karla Vilisha Delaney of Newberry SC, who dedicated her time and assisted with her medical care; Miss Brittany Jalis Smith and Johnathan Edward Smith both of Arlington VA; and Granddaughter Madyson Amberly Delaney of Moyock NC.  She leaves behind a loving sister, Mrs. Doris Thomas Warden of Jamaica New York, who she enjoyed their late night chats and singing hymns and songs, as well as a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.

In Lieu of Flowers please send donations to: Hospice Care of South Carolina, 2541 Evans Street, Newberry, SC  29108.

 Service Information