Obituaries

Howard Vernon Perry, 91, of Knoxville, passed away peacefully on Mon., Nov. 8, 2021. Born on August 29, 1930, Howard was a longtime member of Fairview UMC in Knoxville, TN. He met Geneva Inez Vesser from Knoxville, and they were married for 20 years, when Geni passed away in 1997. Howard was well-loved as “Granddaddy” and was known as the “ice cream man” in Crossville and the Norwood community in Knoxville. He also worked for many years at Dollywood. Howard participated faithfully in the candy apple project of the church he loved so much, Fairview UMC. He attended without fail every Sunday and loved being in the midst of his church family. He loved his coffee and donuts in Sunday School! He also had several beloved pets throughout his life.
Howard is survived by his brothers Eugene L. (Ola) Perry and Charlie E. (Barbara) Perry, family caregivers Mary Puckett and Kimberley Tate, several nieces and nephews, stepchildren David (Gloria) Vesser, Danny (Betsi) Vesser, Carol (Dale) Money, Robert Dean Vesser, nine grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. The family gives special appreciation to his caregivers at NHC Ft Sanders, and to everyone who gave him rides as needed, brought him special food and treats, and took the time to visit with and care for him.