James Perry

James Arthur "Jim" Perry, 59, of Shelby died Friday, April 9, 2010 at Hospice of Catawba Valley after a short period of declining health from a head injury. Jim was born September 20, 1950 in Wilkes County, N. C. to the late Helen Payne Perry and Ray Robert Perry, Sr. He was owner of Perry Painting and Cleaning Services. Many of the fine old homes in Shelby have been restored to their original beauty by Jim's painting talents. Cycling being one of his enjoyable past times, Jim made the climb from Spartanburg, S. C. to Mt. Mitchell many times. He also was an exceptionally skilled ping pong and pool player. Having won trophies and tournaments in both sports, he was better known by friends and acquaintances in the Shelby area as the "Hustler". A 1969 graduate of Shelby High School, Jim earned a business degree from Cleveland Community College and later served in the U. S. army. he was a member of the Shelby VFW and Humane Society. Survivors include a sister, Beth Marvin and brother-in-law Bill Marvin of Hickory and a brother, Bob Perry of Shelby. He is also survived by nephews Hal Marvin and wife Mary Marvin of Hickory, Lance Marvin of Hickory and Anderson Marvin and wife Erin Marvin of Huntersville; three nieces include Shannon Griffith and husband Patrick of Washington, D. C., Jennifer Reed and husband Eric of Lexington, S. C. and Kelly Calhoun and husband Pat of Elgin, S. C.; also six great nieces and nephews and special friend Sharon Nichols. The funeral service will be held Tuesday, April 13, 2010 at 2:00 P M. in the chapel of Cleveland Funeral Servics of Shelby with the Rev. Jerry Rumfelt officiating. The family will receive friends and relatives one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow the service at Sunset Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Humane Society or Palliative Care Center and Hospice of Catawba Valley, 3975 Robinson Rd., Newton, NC 28658.