Barbara Gean (Bady) Perkins

Barbara Gean Perkins passed away on March 31, 2025, at the home of her only daughter, YoLonda, in KC, KS. She was born on May 29th, 1937, to her mom Marion Bady Brown.

Barbara grew up in Kansas City, Kansas, and graduated from Sumner High School in Kansas City, Kansas in 1955. After High School, Barbara started her career in food service at Bethany Hospital. She worked for many years at Bethany until she joined the workforce at KU Medical Center. Barbara went on to join the Dietary Manager Association, where in 1989-98 she earned the title of chair of the certifying board for Dietary Managers.

She received many recognitions for her dedicated leadership and service. She retired after 49 years at KU.

Barbara met her soul mate, A.B. Perkins, at the age of 14 in 1951. They were married 4 years later on June 17, 1955. A.B. Perkins and Barbara lived life to the fullest. She stood by and supported her husband until his death on January 17, 2012.

 Barbara accepted Christ at an early age at Walnut Blvd Baptist Church. She later moved her membership to Calvary Baptist Church. She returned to her church at Walnut in the 90s and praised the Lord most Sundays until her health began to fail.

Barbara enjoyed her family watching Chiefs football games, loved playing bingo, and was a faithful church member.

She was also a member of the Silver Sneakers and went to the YMCA faithfully three times a week.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband of 60+ years, A.B. Perkins, her mother, and stepfather Marion and James Brown. Her four aunts and two uncles. Her grandson Dyron  Perkins of KC, KS. 

Barbara is survived by her children, Kevin Perkins Sr., only daughter, YoLonda Perkins of Kansas City, KS, and Dale Perkins Sr. (Briget) of Kansas City, MO; daughter-in-law Monica Perkins; nine grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; nieces, and nephews; a host of other relatives and friends.

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