CLEARLAKE, Calif. – Zella Mae Perkins, 89, died peacefully on May 20, 2015, in her home in Clearlake.
Zella was born Feb. 10, 1926, in Tyronza, Ark., to Warren Stewart and Corine Harvey.
Zella thoroughly enjoyed quilting and cooking for her immediate family and broader church community.
In addition, she was an avid fisherwoman with her late husband, Arthur Perkins, and could be found spending her summer days at the lake or in the company of friends.
In 1952, Zella married the love of her life, Arthur Perkins, in Helena, Ark.; however, with their sights and ambitions set on building a bright future together, they moved to Pittsburgh, Calif.
Mr. Perkins worked as an independent contractor while Zella managed a career as a housekeeper. Upon the arrival of the their retirement in the late 80s, Zella and Arthur decided to move to Clearlake.
Zella was actively involved in her local church, First Baptist Church of Clearlake, and the quilting guild. In fact, many of Zella's quilts have been featured or sold at local fairs and markets throughout Lake County.
Nonetheless, her generous spirit, loving-kindness and sassiness would be the crown jewels of her fond reputation. There was simply no one like her.
In the final hours of her life, Zella proclaimed, “My work is done.” Truly, Zella lived a life filled with many accomplishments that has touched thousands of people over the years.
Zella is survived by her brother, Ervin King; her grandson, Maurice Perkins; great-granddaughter, Wanda Perkins; and a number of other relatives and close friends.
She is now reunited with her daughter Nan Queenan and husband of almost 60 years, Arthur Perkins.
There will be a funeral service held on Friday, May 29, at 1 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Clearlake.
A graveside service for immediate family members will be held at Oak View Cemetery in Antioch, Calif.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent in her name to First Baptist Church of Clearlake, 14550 Pearl Ave., Clearlake, CA 95422.
Please share your loving memories of Zella by signing her online guestbook at www.jonesandlewis.com or www.legacy.com .
Arrangements under the care of Jones & Lewis Clear Lake Memorial Chapel.