Obituary of Talma Dowe Perry

Talma Anita Dowe Perry 80 of Roanoke passed away peacefully on Monday, September 24, 2012. She was preceded by her husband, Dr. Sheridan L. C. Perry of Washington, D.C; her parents, Talma Virginia Serrell Dowe and Albert Garland Dowe; a brother, Albert Garland Dowe, Jr. and numerous aunts and uncles. Talma received her Bachelor's degree from Howard University and her Masters from Harvard University School of Education. She was a retired Virginia Tech Extension Agent specializing in Early Childhood Development and 4-H. Her career spanned many years. She was a elementary school teacher in Newton, MA. and Roanoke City public schools, an Education Instructor at Tuskegee Institute and Howard University. Student Teacher Supervisor at Brooklyn College and Research Fellow at Harvard School of Public Health. Was also a Day Care Licensing Specialist in Richmond and a Headstart Director in Lynchburg. Talma was dedicated to community service and a member of Quota Club, League of Women Voters, American Association of University Women, the Art Museum of Western Virginia Docent Guild, the Center in the Square Athenian Society, the Virginia Partners of the Americas, Roanoke Valley Democratic Women and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. She was a former board member of the Roanoke Valley Mental Health Association. She enjoyed playing Bridge and belonged to several Bridge clubs. Talma was a faith-filled woman and a member of Our Lady of Nazareth Catholic Church. Talma is survived by her daughter, Sheryl Martin; son-in-law, Dana; her grandson, Jordan; sister, Elaine Dowe Carter and by many cousins and many beloved friends that will miss her dearly. The family extends sincere thanks to the staff at Good Samaritan Hospice for their loving care and concern. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to a charitable organization of your choice in Talma's name. The family will receive friends Thursday, September 27, 2012 from 6:00pm-8:00pm at Simpson Funeral Home, and Friday, September 28, 2012 from 10:00am to 11:00am at Our Lady of Nazareth Catholic Church and a memorial service celebrating Talma's life at 11:00am with Monsignor Joseph P. Lehman and Deacon Richard Surrusco officiating. Inurnment will be private. Friends may send their condolences to the family at www.simpsonfuneral.com. Arrangements handled by Simpson Funeral Home and Crematory, 366-0707.