Robert Hillary Perkins

To most of his friends and colleagues he was known as “Bob.” He was born Robert Hillary Perkins on October 2, 1929, in Westwego, Louisiana, to Alberta Jackson and Edward Perkins. Robert was the third of four children (Edward Perkins Jr., Wilton Perkins and Audrey William Taylor), all of whom proceeded him in transition.

Raised by his single mother, Robert grew up in New Orleans, Louisiana. At the age of 14, his mother recognized that he needed structure, and sent him to military school.

After military school, Robert joined the US Army on June 23, 1946 (age 17). He served three years and was honorably discharged on June 30, 1949; receiving WWII Victory Medal for his service.

Seeking better opportunities, after leaving the Army, he immediately moved to Los Angeles, CA. and landed a job at the US Postal Service. He met Annie B. Swan, and following a short courtship, they were married. In 1951, they purchased a home in Compton, CA where they raised their children, Robert Perkins Jr, Kenneth Eugene Perkins, and Joyce Ann Perkins.

This home would be the epicenter of the family where they gathered for many occasions, especially family dinners. We all know… Bob Perkins loved a good meal!

Robert was active in his children’s lives by volunteering as an assistant boy scout master, baseball coach, and even math tutor. He loved taking the family on summer camping trips. He would load up the car, (which the children named the “Blue Bomb”) and travel up the West coast from Los Angeles to Canada.

In 1957, Robert changed his career path and became an inspector with the Los Angeles County Air Pollution Control District. He worked there until his path changed again…

Robert had tireless energy and was dedicated to seeing that the Compton Community improved and grew, by serving as a Board Member on numerous committees. This work caught the attention of the office of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. Robert held the position of Chief Deputy in the 4th supervisorial district for James A Hayes, Yvonne Brathwaite Burke, and Deane Dana spanning over 7 years.

After his retirement in 1981, Robert’s travels inspired him to open Compton Travel and Crenshaw Imperial Travel. These travel agencies were staples in the community for over 20 years. He travelled extensively, managing to visit every continent on this earth, except Antarctica.

With his son Kenneth, he also launched Primo Deli in Century City.

For the last 10 years Robert lived in Fairburn Georgia, with his daughter, enjoying the simpler things in life.

Robert’s religious base was the Roman Catholic Church. Saint John the Apostle wrote in 1 John 3:23, “And this is his commandment, that we should believe on the name of his son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment”. Robert Hillary Perkins’ life exemplified his faith and obedience in both commandments.

Robert showed his faith and love of God by example. If he met someone who was in need, Robert would help without hesitation, and with love in his heart, never expecting anything in return. His spirit lives on in everyone he touched.

Robert made his transition peacefully at home, with his loving family on Saturday February 26,2022.

Robert leaves to cherish his memory, Annie Perkins, son Robert Perkins Jr., daughter in law Janice Martin, son Kenneth Perkins, daughter in law Patricia Perkins, and daughter, Joyce Perkins Foster; His grandchildren, Leticia Mayfield, Melanee Robinson, Adisa Perkins, Anana Hicks and George Martin; nine great grandchildren; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, Special friend Jeanne Keller, loved ones and friends.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.rosehills.com for the Perkins family.