Susan Eileen (Sowash) Perkins

Susan Eileen Perkins, 80, of Peru, Indiana, passed away at her home on April 19, 2026.

She was born January 10, 1946, in Anderson, Indiana, to John Richard “Jay” Sowash II and Martha (Wiley) Sowash.

Susan is survived by her loving husband, Terry James “Jim” Perkins of Peru, IN; her sons, Tim (Vicki) Perkins of Columbus, IN, and Andy (Teresa) Perkins of Rochester, IN; and her grandchildren, Reagan (Grace) Perkins of Columbus, IN, and Rylan Perkins of Columbus, IN. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, John Richard “Dick” Sowash, III.

Susan grew up in Pendleton, Indiana, and pursued her passion for helping others through education. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Speech Therapy from Ball State University and a master’s degree in Rehabilitation Administration from Southern Illinois University.

Her career was marked by a deep commitment to serving others. She taught speech therapy to children for many years, both in school settings and in her home. She also managed Gateway Services of Peru, later known as Bona Vista. She continued this work of service with the Region 4 Workforce Board as Strategic Initiatives Manager and Disabilities Resource Coordinator until her retirement.

Susan had a true gift of hospitality. She loved hosting, cooking, and gathering both longtime friends and new acquaintances around her table. This was one of the many ways she expressed her love for others. She also enjoyed playing bridge and was known for her warm, welcoming spirit.

Her life was guided by her deep faith in God and the teachings of Jesus. She lived by a simple but powerful principle: love God and love others. For decades, she was an active member of Peru Grace Brethren Church, where she raised her family and faithfully served her community. Her faith shaped not only what she believed, but how she lived through her service, leadership, and compassion. She was also a member of the Gideons Auxiliary.

Susan was deeply invested in her community and gave generously of her time and leadership. She served as National Housing Director for Alpha Chi Omega sorority. Susan was also a member or director of several local organizations: Psi Iota Xi, Concerned Citizens for Life of Miami County, the Peru Community School Board, Peru Art Club, and the Peru Rotary Club, where she served as its first female President. She also was a board member and former President of the Northern Indiana Community Foundation.

Susan loved her community well and led with both strength and grace. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and genuine compassion for others. One of her favorite Bible verses was 1 Peter 4:8: “Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.”

A celebration of life service will be held at Peru Grace Brethren Church in Peru, Indiana on Saturday, May 2, 2026, with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. and the service at 11:00 a.m. Tim and Andy Perkins will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that friends consider donating to Gideons International, the Peru Grace Brethren Church, or to the Northern Indiana Community Foundation, designated to the “Perkins Family Fund,” supporting local nonprofit organizations Susan cared deeply about.

“Our family would like to express our gratitude to the many friends who cared for and loved our mother and wife so well. We would also like to show appreciation for the amazing caregivers with Gentiva Hospice. Thank you all.”

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

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