Carolyn Ruth Perkins

Carolyn Ruth Perkins, age 79, of Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on April 22,

2023, surrounded by her family after a short battle with pancreatic cancer.

Carolyn was born on March 9, 1944, in Mexico City, Mexico, to parents Lem and Millie (Lewis)

Lemley. She retired from Muskogee Regional Medical Center and Muskogee Public Schools.

Carolyn was an exceptional athlete in the sport of swimming. After dedicating years of her life to

training, she was honored to earn her spot competing for Mexico during the Olympic Games.

Unfortunately, she was unable to attend due to medical complications two weeks before the

opening ceremonies.

Carolyn was a devoted wife, mother, sister, and “Nana”. She is survived by her loving husband

of 38 years, Gerald Joseph of Fort Gibson; children Heather Robinson of Tulsa, Leslie Wright

and husband Robert of Collinsville, and Gerri Goudeau and husband Marvin of Glenpool and

grandchildren Madison, Ty and wife Alexis, Stella, Gracie, Ella, and Brodie. She also leaves

behind her sister Patricia Donahy of Llano, Texas, niece Elaine, her husband Eric Schuessler,

and their daughter Jennings of Llano, Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents, son

James M. Wilson and her two beloved labradors, Baby and Mocha. Carolyn will be deeply

missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her.

The family welcomes donations to the Alpha 12 Masonic Lodge at P.O. Box 1943, Fort Gibson,

OK 74434, Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Sanctuary at P.O. Box 15555 Mbagathi, Nairobi

00503, Kenya, or a charity of your choice as an expression of sympathy and love in her name in

lieu of flowers.

The family will hold a memorial service at a later date this summer.

Carolyn will always be remembered for her quick wit, infectious laughter, and unwavering

kindness. She touched the lives of so many and will be greatly missed.