Arissia Peggy (Washington) Perkins

Arissia “Peggy” Perkins was born on February 5, 1952, in Camilla to the late Mr. Emory Washington, Sr. and Rachel Washington Parrish.

On June 24, 2026, God saw that Peggy’s earthly journey was complete and graciously granted her wings. She peacefully departed this life to begin her eternal rest in Heaven, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, faith, and dedicated service.

Peggy accepted Christ as her personal Savior at an early age. She was a faithful and dedicated member of Pilgrim Rest Church, where she served on the Pink Ladies Board. Her love for God and commitment to serving others were evident throughout her life.

Raised in Decatur County, Peggy developed a deep appreciation for family, community, and service. In her younger years, she enjoyed playing softball, sewing, and spending precious time with her grandchildren. She received her education through the Decatur County School District and dedicated 38 years of faithful service to the Decatur County Sheriff’s Office.

Known by her radio call sign, “SO-7,” Peggy earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues and community through her unwavering commitment to law enforcement. As the first Black female Deputy Sheriff in Decatur County, she broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of women in law enforcement. Her distinguished career was recognized with numerous honors, including the Peace Officer of the Year Award in 1995, the prestigious Wayne Montford Award, and designation as an Honorary Decatur County Deputy Sheriff. Her dedication, integrity, and compassion left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside her.

Peggy was united in Holy Matrimony to Johnny Jones. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose greatest joy was caring for her family and creating lasting memories with those she loved.

Peggy was preceded in death by her parents, the late Emory Washington, Sr. and Rachel Washington Parrish; her brothers, Emory Washington, Jr., Samuel Washington, Walter Washington, Eugene Washington, and George Washington; and her sisters, Lena Washington and Myra Washington.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories four loving children: Debra (Caesar) Riley of Camilla, Jimmy Robinson, Sr. of Bainbridge, O’Mar Perkins of Bainbridge, Georgia, and LaShea (Corey) Robinson Ellison of Atlanta, Georgia.  She also leaves to cherish her memory her stepchildren, Johnny Jones Jr, James Jones, Johnesia Jones, Jamiria Jones, Jeremiah Jones, Kenneth Jones, X-ale Polk of Belle Glade, Florida.

She was also a devoted guardian and loving parental figure to John Fleming and Jermaine Fleming of Dothan, Alabama.

Peggy also leaves to cherish her memory her brothers: Bobby (Sylvia) Washington and James Parrish, both of Bainbridge, Georgia, and Robert (Shirley) Washington of Augusta,Georgia; her sisters: Minnie S. Haire of Columbus, Georgia, Reatha (Emory) Middleton of Bainbridge, Georgia, and Julia Floyd of Rochester, New York.

She further leaves behind her loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a devoted and special niece, Stephanie Dennis; her devoted caretaker, Essence Register; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Peggy’s life was a shining example of faith, perseverance, service, and unconditional love. Her gentle spirit, warm smile, and unwavering devotion to family and community touched countless lives. Though her physical presence will be deeply missed, her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

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