Merrill Gilford Perkins

Merrill Gilford Perkins, 91, was born on May 8, 1934, in Salem, Massachusetts, to Alton and Thelma Perkins. He lived a life defined by faith, devotion, and unwavering love for his family and community.

Merrill was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose steady presence and gentle spirit touched all who knew him. He was preceded in death by the love of his life and wife of 60 years, Virginia Perkins. Their marriage was a beautiful testament to commitment, partnership, and enduring love.

Called to ministry, Merrill faithfully served as a dedicated Methodist pastor and was a longtime member of the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church. Throughout his years of service, he shepherded congregations with compassion, wisdom, and humility. His sermons were rooted in grace, his leadership guided by integrity, and his ministry marked by genuine care for others. He walked alongside his parishioners in times of joy and sorrow, offering comfort, encouragement, and steadfast faith.

More than anything, Merrill cherished his family. He leaves behind his daughters, Dawn Hoppes (Tony) and Cheryl Skerlak (Frank), who carry forward his legacy of love and strength. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Elizabeth (Hoppes) Dean, Austin Skerlak (Stephanie), and Carly Marshall (Max), and a joyful great-grandfather to Payton Hoppes and Finley Marshall. His eyes would light up at the mention of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, in whom he took immeasurable pride.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, February 22, at 2:00 PM at Wilkinson Funeral Home in Concord, North Carolina. The family will greet friends following the service.

Merrill's life was one of service - to God, to his church, and to his family. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in the promise so faithfully proclaimed:

"For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us." - Romans 8:18

May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.