Edward Lester Perdue

Edward Lester Perdue, 93, lovingly known as “Ed”, peacefully transitioned from his home on earth into his eternal home in Heaven Saturday morning, March 2, 2024.   The family will receive friends at James Funeral Home from 12:00-1:00 PM Tuesday, March 5, 2024.  A graveside funeral service will follow at 1:30PM in the Wrens Memorial Cemetery with Rev. Mason Davis officiating.

Born on October 10, 1930, Ed was one of six born to the late Ollie Belle Williams Perdue and the late Oscar Lee Perdue. A lifelong resident of Jefferson County, he was a 1950 graduate of Stapleton High School where he not only received an education but also made cherished memories playing basketball.

Ed's professional path was one of resilience and commitment. He started his career at Lewis Steel Works before bravely serving in the Army. Upon returning from his military service, he joined Southern Natural Gas Company, where he dedicated 35 years of service before retiring as a Compressor Station Operator.  However, it was farming that truly captured Ed's heart. In the afternoons, weekends and after retirement, he could be found working the land with unmatched passion.

In matters of the heart, Ed met the love of his life at a high school basketball game after returning from the Army. They were united in marriage in 1956 and their bond stood as a testament to love, dedication and partnership. Ed's faith was central to his being. He accepted God's gift of salvation early in life and served Him diligently as a past member of Stapleton Baptist Church and, since 1959, a member of Wrens Baptist Church.

A man of many interests, Ed enjoyed hunting and fishing in his youth, with dove and quail shoots holding a special place in his heart. He had a way with bird dogs, often training them for others due to his patience and skill. His love for people extended beyond his immediate family; he was known for his quiet yet welcoming demeanor and passion for learning about others and their backgrounds.

Family meant everything to Ed. His love came with deep devotion and dedication. When the time came, Ed accepted and loved each of his sons-in-law as his own; however, the joy of his life came from spending time with his grandchildren and attending their various ballgames.  The great grandchildren filled his heart to capacity.

Ed was also preceded in death by his only son, Edward L. Perdue Jr.; grandson, Will Holley; son-in-law, Keith Holley; and four siblings, Dorothy Jacobs, Marian Lewis, Glatney Perdue and Marguerite Newsome. Those left to cherish his memories include his adored wife, Betty Jean Godowns Perdue; his loving daughters, Susan P. Holley, Jeanne P. Gay (Jeff), and Patti P. Rhodes (Randy); five grandchildren, Trent P. Holley (Ashley), Jacob R. Gay (Lauren), Jonathan E. Gay (Rachel), Kayla R. McNair (Jared),and Grayson B. Rhodes; nine great-grandchildren, Asher Holley, Addie Holley, Emme Holley, Aubrey Holley, Jake Gay, Luke Gay, Mary Eliza Gay, Barrett Gay and Birdie Gay; one sister, Emily P. Winters (Val); nieces; nephews; other extended family members; and a church family who will always remember him fondly.

Edward Lester Perdue will be remembered as a wise, thoughtful man whose impact on those around him was immeasurable. His legacy of hard work, faithfulness, and love will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to have known him.