Reverend Luerene Perkins was born August 4, 1929 to the late Margaret and John Henry Stevens. Rev. Perkins entered into eternal rest on February 3, 2022.

Rev. Perkins relocated to Newark, NJ from West Point, Mississippi in 1952. Growing up in the country, she had to adapt to living in the city. For her, buying food instead of harvesting food was a different concept.

Luerene’s 1st job was at Overlook Hospital in Summit. She continued to work in the medical field for over 40 years before retiring.

She joined First Corinthian Missionary Baptist Church in Newark, NJ in 1969. She was very active on the Missionary Board as well as singing in the Gospel Choir. On April 14, 1997, she was the first ordained female minister of the gospel. She later continued her studies to become Reverend. During her tenure, Rev. Perkins oversaw many departments:
• Baptismal procedures and implementation
• Sunday School Service
• Communion for the sick and shut in

In 2000, she moved to Virginia and joined Shiloh Baptist Church – Old Site. She loved the church and participated in many functions.

Luerene enjoyed making her famous cornbread stuffing, gardening, as well as reading her Bible. Rev. Perkins was an anointed woman that gave from her heart and loved all who crossed her path. She will be remembered as a dear daughter, loving sister, faithful wife, awesome mother, a caring aunt, a dedicated grandmother, and a trustworthy friend.

Luerene was preceded in death by her husband, Willie Roy Perkins; son, James H. Buchanan; daughter, Beatrice Wilson; sisters, Clara Thomas, Leona Seales; brothers, Rosevelt Hatch, Allison Hatch, Theodus Booker and Joe C Hatch She leaves to cherish her love, wisdom and memories, sons Alonso Perkins of NJ; Ira Armour of NJ; Eddie Armour of Va; daughter Julia Buchanan of Va.; sisters Margaret James and Ella Brown; brother Douglas M. Hatch. Rev. Perkins will be missed by 14 grandchildren; great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, as well as a host of other relatives and friends.