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Starling “Buddy” Edward Perkins of Calera, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, at the age of 78.
Born on February 18, 1948, in California, Buddy was raised in Sherman and later moved to Durant in 1979. He lived a life marked by hard work, resilience, and devotion to those he loved. For more than 40 years, he worked as a carpenter alongside his best friend, Bill, at the Bill Copley Company.
Buddy enjoyed the simple things in life and was happiest when surrounded by family and the comforts of home. He spent many years camping at the lake with loved ones, fishing, and hunting. His time at the deer lease, bonding with lifelong friends like "J.E." Raborn, created some of his fondest memories.
He will be remembered for his quiet strength, his sense of humor, and the lasting impact he made on everyone who knew him. He was a kid at heart, and you could always find him jumping on the trampoline, giving the kids rides on the four-wheeler, running in the family potato sack races, or playing games with his grandchildren. He was truly a devoted family man whose greatest joy was the people he loved. He gave each member of his family unwavering care, attention, and support, always taking the time to ask about their lives, celebrate their accomplishments, and help carry their burdens. He genuinely wanted to know how everyone was doing and had a remarkable way of making each person feel valued, important, and deeply loved.
Buddy is survived by his beloved sweetheart, Aurelia Dickinson, his greatest love and faithful companion. For nearly 50 years, they shared a life rich with love, laughter, unwavering support, and countless cherished memories. Their enduring bond was a testament to true companionship, and the love they shared remained one of the greatest blessings of Buddy's life. He is also survived by his honorary children: Rose (Kevin) Collazo, Hilda (Everett) Taylor, Elvia (Mike) Baskin, Joe (Connie) Dickinson, Alice Dickinson, Johnny Dickinson, and Patricia Dickinson.
He also leaves behind his honorary grandchildren: Michelle Badour, Maria and Robert Nicholas, Margaret Ybarra, Ricky (Jocelyn) Almaguer, Rachel Almaguer, April (Brittian) Bang, Stephanie Arnold, Stephen (Sarah) Arnold, Nikki Hood, Kelly (Lasane) Hamilton, Jakki Dickinson, Kristina Christian, Ashley Christian, Summer Hill, Spencer (Haylee) Peoples, Trevor Peoples, Riley (Kelton) Shriver, along with 17 great-grandchildren, 34 great-great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-great-grandchildren.
Buddy is also survived by his siblings, Danny Perkins and Janis Perkins, and by his children, Toni Thompson and Ross Perkins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Starling "Bud" Perkins and Gladys Mae Honeycutt Perkins; his sister, Linda Kimsey; and his honorary son, Victor Joel Dickinson.
If love alone could have kept him here, Buddy would have stayed forever. Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we are forever grateful for the love Buddy gave so freely. His laughter, gentle spirit, quiet strength, and unconditional love will continue to guide us, and the memories we shared with him will remain among our greatest treasures. Until we meet again, he will be deeply missed and forever loved for generations to come.
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