Joan Perry

Joan Perry entered into her eternal rest early in the morning on Friday, Aug. 25, 2017. Joan was born in Havana, Kan., Jan. 6, 1933 to Otis J. and Gladys Hobson. A fiercely independent strong woman, she was loved and revered by her family. She leaves behind one son, Jeff Perry and wife, Sandy; one daughter, Jacci Perry-Ryan and her husband, Max; she had two grandchildren, Jennifer Ann Cross and Amber Nail; seven great-grandchildren and many long-time friends and business associates. She will be missed by all, especially her radiant smile and engaging personality. Her work life began at age 13 when she was an operator for her parents telephone company, Madison County Telephone Company. In the days of shared lines, you can bet she knew everyone's secrets. After working in the county clerk's office for a period of time, she ran for Washington County Treasurer in 1975, beating three men for the post at a time when women were unlikely winners in the political arena. For the next 24 years she ran unopposed except for one election, a testimony to her integrity and the exemplary job she did. She was always willing to help with whatever was before her around the county office, including tackling a prisoner attempting to escape after his sentence was pronounced. Joan was truly a yellow dog Democrat, but she liked to watch Fox News, maybe a testimony to an inquisitive mind that liked to consider all sides of an issue. She retired in 1999 and began traveling, first to Australia for a month and then took one of her granddaughters on a trip to Greece as a college graduation present. Joan was a member of the Goshen United Methodist Church and for many years held the post of treasurer and was also on the board of the Goshen Fire Department, having lived there since 1973. She loved spending time with her family, mowing her yard and reading about and participating in area political workings. She was also a lifetime member of Eastern Star. There will be a visitation from 5-7 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 28, 2017 at Beard's Chapel. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017 at Goshen United Methodist Church with Reverend John Humphries officiating. Interment will follow at Sonora Cemetery under the direction of Beard's Chapel. Joan has requested that memorials be given to the Goshen United Methodist Church, 122 E. Bowen Blvd., Goshen, Ark. 72735 or the Goshen Fire Department, 124 Church St., Goshen, Ark.. 72735. Condolences at www.beardsfuneralchapel.com.