Dean Perkins Obituary

Dr. Merlyn "Dean" Perkins, 85, died on September 27, 2024 in Denton Texas. Born October 16, 1938 in Sullivan Illinois to Bradford E. Perkins and Lois Moore Perkins.
Graduated from Jacksonville Illinois High School in 1956 where he played basketball, drums and made Eagle Scout at the age of 14. He was always very proud of becoming an Eagle Scout at the age of 14.
Graduated Illinois College in 1960 where he learned of his love of airplanes and flying. He became a private pilot for different manufacturing companies until he landed a private pilot job with Winthrop Rockefeller - flew for Rockefeller while he was governor of Arkansas 1967-71. Never gave up his love for flying!
Decided to go to Dental School at UMKC in Kansas, MO. This where he met, his wife Raynelle Ellison. They were married in Morrilton AK on December 29, 1974. Graduated from dental school in May 1976 and moved to Kimberling City MO where he practiced general dentistry for 10 years.
He then returned to school at University of North Carolina where he received a master's degree in Dental Public Health and became Chief of the Bureau of Dental Health Missouri Department of Health. He retired in 2003. After retiring from Missouri Dental Public Health he became Executive Director of the Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors until he was in his 80's and his fingers would no longer let him type.
Over the years he has received many awards in his years in public health.
Dean was a faithful member of Rotary International and a lifetime member of the United Methodist Church where he served many administrative positions. From childhood on he loved any kind of fishing and hunting, basketball, football and baseball. Most of all he loved being with his family for any and all occasions.
He was preceded in death by his parents Brad and Lois Perkins and his sister Ione Danner. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Raynelle Perkins, daughters Reesa Novak and husband Jim, Candy Mummert and husband Aaron. Seven grandchildren and one great grandson.
In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Serenity Gardens Seniors, in care of Tiffany Ricketts 1405 Val Verde Ct Denton TX 76210 or the charity of choice.
Service will be held October 25, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. Riverview Cemetery in Jefferson City, Missouri. Reception to follow.
Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 West Main Street, Jefferson City, Missouri 65109 (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com
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