Bennie Ruth Woods Perry

“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Luke 6:31 - Bennie was a living testament to The Golden Rule.

With heavy hearts, we celebrate the life and legacy of Bennie Ruth (Bootsie) Woods Perry, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, whose radiant spirit touched all who knew her.

Born on February 15, 1953, in Whiteville, Tennessee, Bennie was the seventh of eight children born to the late Joe Davis and Rena Mae Wilkes Woods. Affectionately known as the “baby girl,” she carried the warmth of family with her throughout her life.

Bennie accepted Christ at an early age, was baptized, and became a member of Union Springs Missionary Baptist Church. Her faith remained central to her life, and in 2006, she joined Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Old Hickory, Tennessee.

She received her early education in the Hardeman County School System, attending Union Spring Elementary and Allen White High School. Following the integration of schools in 1970, Bennie transferred to and graduated from Central High School in Bolivar, Tennessee in 1971. That same year, she enrolled at Tennessee State University (TSU), where she pursued a degree in Early Childhood Education. While at TSU, she met and fell in love with Rivers Lee Perry Jr. They married on September 4, 1976, and were blessed with their daughter, Brittni, on September 6, 1984.

A passionate educator, Bennie worked in the Metro Nashville Public School system from 1993 to 1995. In 1997, she began a new chapter at Dell Computers, where she enjoyed a long and successful career until her retirement in 2016. In 2019, Bennie proudly took on the role she cherished most: MeeMaw to her grandson, Peerless Latten. He was the joy of her life. Her love for him knew no bounds.

Bennie was known for her impeccable style, her love of traveling to family reunions, and her unwavering support of her sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, and extended family. She delighted in watching soap operas with her husband, sisters, and cousins—a small joy that reflected her deep love for togetherness.

Bennie’s presence illuminated every room. Her kindness, grace, and deep devotion to her family, friends, and faith were the hallmarks of a life well-lived. She was a woman of compassion, strength, and joy—a true example of love in action.

Bennie was preceded in death by: sister, Virginia Tisdale; sister in law, Carolyn Shaw 5 brothers-in-law, Willie Ray Cross, Andrew Robertson, John Winston Sanders, Lorenzo Tisdale and Marvin Shaw and Marvin Perry and Roy Smith

She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. They are listed as follows:

Devoted husband of 48 years, Rivers L. Perry Jr.,loving daughter, Brittni (David and Peerless Latten) Perry, 4 sisters, Rubye Cross, Mattie Robertson, Thelma Sanders, Viola (Arthur) Crowder

2 Brothers, Roscoe (Shirley) Woods and Joe Davis Woods, Jr.

6 Sisters-in-law and 5 brothers-in-law, Marilyn Smith, Charlotte Anita (Ortha) Todd, Flora Perry Benny (Carmelita) Perry, Randy (Debbie Inita) Perry, Kirk (Constance) Perry, Van Perry.

She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, and many friends.