Perry Nelson Hills
Mr. Perry Nelson Hills, died peacefully at JRMC, on November 9, 2020, in Pine Bluff, Ark., at the age of 82. Perry is survived by his wife, Janet Hills of White Hall, his devoted Daughter and Son-in-law, Melody and Terry Gere of White Hall, his two loving grandchildren, Bethany Gere of White Hall, and Robert and Sydney Gere of New Orleans, La. He is also survived by Nieces and Nephews in Michigan, Ohio, and Fla., and several grand and great-grand nieces and nephews in Indiana, Ohio, and Mich. He is preceded in death by Asiel Hills (Father), Mildred Hills (Mother), Rosette “Suzie” Merillat (Sister), Norman Merillat (Brother in Law), Don Hills (Brother), Eleanor Hills (Sister in Law), and Steven Hills (Son).
Perry Nelson Hills, was born in Mich., on February 14th, 1938. He graduated from High School in 1956, and graduated Salutatorian from Jackson Business University in Jackson, Mich., in 1962. He married Janet after being set up on a blind date at church. They later married in 1963 and had two children, Steven and Melody Hills. Perry was many things to many people, the principal, music instructor, director, instrument repairman, and even taxman. But he was loved and respected by all that he encountered. Perry was an accomplished musician and dedicated his life to the church. He and Janet traveled all over the United States singing in churches and later added their children and grandchildren to the ministry. Perry was known for his trumpet abilities and his pure tenor voice. He taught many students to play instruments throughout his career. Perry was also a jokester. You couldn’t shake his hand without him rolling your knuckles. People that knew Perry knew not to ask him to pass anything because he would pull it back every time. Perry was an active and dedicated member of Bethany Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as Orchestra Director.
A Community Memorial Service at Bethany Missionary Baptist Church, will be held on Friday, November 13, at 5 p.m. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Perry’s life. Social distancing and masks will be required at all events. The family asks that you follow all guidelines of the Arkansas Department of Health. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Bethany Missionary Baptist Church, for the Music Fund. The Family would like to thank everyone for the kind words and prayers. Online condolences at www.rfwhitehall.com. “Love you Grandpa” -Bethany