John Foster Perkins

JOHN FOSTER PERKINS, 87, of Weirton, WV, passed away on November 13, 2024. Born on September 3, 1937, in Steubenville, OH, John was one of three children of the late Dallas and Marie Ward Perkins. A proud graduate of Steubenville Big Red High School in 1956, John remained a lifelong Big Red fan and held season tickets for their football games for decades. John dedicated 46 years to the gas industry, beginning his career with Manufacture Light and Heat, later transitioning to Columbia Gas, Mountaineer Gas, and finally First Energy On April 30, John married Joyce Shultz Walker, and together they shared an inseparable bond, doing everything side by side. A passionate car enthusiast since his high school days, John owned and cherished cars throughout his life. As members of the Fort Steuben Street Rods, he and Joyce took great pride in their 1934 and 1966 Fords, winning numerous awards at car shows across the valley. John and Joyce shared a love for travel, exploring the United States and beyond to destinations like Aruba, Cancun, Cozumel, the Florida Keys, and Pigeon Forge. John enjoyed scuba diving and years ago enjoyed bowling in Steubenville bowling leagues. Known for his playful sense of humor, John loved to joke and tease. One of his favorite memories was when Joyce gifted him a Richard Petty driving experience at the Charlotte Motor Speedway, where he delighted in the thrill of the track. John nourished his faith at Oakland Presbyterian Church. Socially, John was also a member of the American Legion in Steubenville. John was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Michael Perkins (2015); his stepson, Michael Walker (1997); and his brother, Richard “Rick” Perkins (2023). He will be remembered with love by his wife, Joyce; his son, John Perkins (Sherri); his daughter, Donna Peters (Paul); his stepdaughter, Diane Walker; his sister, Judy Davis (Jim); sisters-in-law, Betty Perkins and Karen McIntyre; granddaughters, Jessica Bastardo (Preston), Casey Peters, Madison and Miranda Perkins, Brittany and Tiffany Walker; great-grandchildren, Brea and Makai Howard, Arabella Bezak, Ashton and Brayden Walker, and Lily Anderson; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation was held Friday, November 15, 2024, at Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, Weirton, where funeral services were conducted on Saturday, November 16, 2024, with Rev. Larry D. Barkley presiding. Entombment followed at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Weirton. Share tributes at www.grecohertnick.com.