Charles Perkins, who for more than half a century was a dominant figure in Shelby County politics and government, died Friday at the age of 85 in Nashville. His death was due to a combination of diabetes, heart issues, and kidney failure.
Perkins, a lawyer, was elected in 1972 to the old Shelby County Quarterly Court, which later became the Shelby County Commission, and served three terms as chairman of what was the county’s legislative body, leaving the Commission in 1992. He would later serve as special counsel for Shelby County for legislative affairs from 1994 to 1998.
Among his concerns were budgetary matters and various renovations having to do with the Shelby County Courthouse and other county buildings. Bill Morris, whom he worked with for the 16 years of Morris’ mayoral terms, termed him “indispensable” and “absolutely the dean of Shelby County government.”
Perkins was “a good watchdog” and “someone who was expert in the state constitution and statutes,” said Morris. “It was thanks to him largely that we had such easy working relations between the executive and legislative branches. He was a team player above all.”
During the period of ferment resulting from the legislature’s passage of “toy towns” legislation in the 1990s, Perkins represented several Shelby County communities in their legal efforts to become full-fledged municipalities.
Perkins never lost touch with the working of county government, but during what amounted to his retirement he took up woodworking as a hobby and made furniture for friends and relatives.
Survivors are his wife Peggy, daughters Stacy McLallen, Tracy White, and Gretchen Thoroughgood, all of Nashville, son Kevin Perkins of Collierville, and a brother, Bill Perkins, in Nashville.
Update: A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, December 16, at Forest Hill Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. at the church. Memorial Gardens Funeral Home is in charge.
