Tommy Joe Perry, 78, of Prairie Grove, Arkansas, passed away peacefully at home Thursday, September 25, 2025. He was born May 9, 1947, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, to the late Orval Joe and Lydia Ann (Pense) Perry. Tom grew up in Shady Grove community of Springdale, Arkansas, where he learned the values of hard work, family and faith that would guide him throughout his life. On September 4, 1965, Tom married his sweetheart, Irma Mae Lewis, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter and unwavering devotion. A master carpenter by trade, Tom's craftsmanship can be seen across Northwest Arkansas from custom-built homes to commercial landmarks like Springdale Memorial Hospital and American Steakhouse. His hands, worn and calloused from decades of labor, built more than structures. They built a legacy of integrity and pride. Tom was more than his work. He was a lifelong musician with a rich, soulful baritone voice. He played guitar and mandolin and had a deep love for country music. He was known for his sharp wit, generous heart and the kind of southern wisdom that only comes from a life well lived. He enjoyed fishing, doting on his dogs and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They knew him as the best Pawpaw anyone could ever ask for. Tom meant so much to so many and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by five brothers, Jack, Lee, Richard, Elmer and James; sister, Delphia.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Irma Mae Perry; children, Allyson (Jorge) Garcia, Katie (Russell) Himes and Josh (Janna) Perry; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren and countless extended family and friends who were blessed to know him.

Celebration of life will be 1:00 p.m. Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Peaceful Valley Bible Church, 2203 South 40th Street, Springdale, Arkansas. The family requests donations be made in Tommy's memory to Peaceful Valley Bible Church.

Cremation arrangements are under the care of Benton County Memorial Park & Funeral Home.