James passed away Sunday, May 17, 2026 at 57 years old. He was born to Antoinette and James Sr. in Pasadena, California.  He spent his formative years in Gulfport, Mississippi.  He attended Kirby High School in Memphis, Tennessee but returned to Dallas to graduate with the 1986 class of his beloved Lincoln High School.  From there, James enrolled in The University of Tennessee at Martin then quickly transferred to DeVry University to fast track his way to an IT career. 

 

James’s first job in IT was at Memphis City Schools.  As he tells the story; he asked his dad to be a reference for him but his dad would only do so after James answered one question; “Son, can you do all the things that they are requiring?” James replied, “Yes dad! I can do all that and more!” James went on to devote 17 years at Memphis City Schools where he helped to set up lasting protocols and built solid infrastructures.  James had a short stint at Wright Medical in their information Systems before spending five years at Baptist Memorial Hospital. He moved his family to Dallas, TX where he accepted a position at Children’s Health.  James has dedicated the last 10 years of his career to Children’s where he is known for his vast knowledge and commitment to details. 

 

James was a caring husband, a devoted father and grandfather, a beloved uncle and cousin cherished every moment spent with those he held dear.  James had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and he truly never saw anyone as a stranger.  His humor warmth and generous spirit left a lasting and impactful impression on all those who knew him.

 

When he wasn’t working, James could be often found manning the grill, dropping a fishing line in a lake, DIY fixing something or filling a room with music, movies and laughter.  Above all else, his greatest joy was his family. 

 

James is survived by his loving wife, Tammy Lee Perkins, his mother, Antionette Gillis (Willie), his sisters Nicole P. Abbas, Allison Floyd, Tamika Perkins (Mark), and Dolen Perkins-Valdez, his brother Allen Floyd (Rita) and his children, Tiera Walker, Terrell Perkins, Jameca Perkins, Alexis Thompson, Lauryn Kelly (Syed), Nicholas Perkins, James Perkins III, and his baby girl, Gabrielle Perkins.

 

He was preceded in death by his father, James Alexander Perkins Sr.

 

James will be deeply missed by all those who had the privilege of knowing him.  His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and the countless lives he touched.