Gladys E. Perry

Gladys Edna Perry, 97 of Streator passed away Tuesday evening (May 26, 2026) at a private care home in Streator. We are beyond grateful for the care and compassion shown by Robin Turner over the past 2 years.

Gladys was born on September 25, 1928, in Streator to Clarence and Cora (Carmichael) Perry.

She is survived by brothers, Wm. Larry Perry of Streator and Ivan Perry of Blackstone, 8 nieces, 1 nephew, 5 great nieces and 13 great nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, brothers and sister in laws, Wayne & Alice Perry, Arthur & Faye Perry, sisters-in-law, Barbara and Kathleen Perry and her beloved cat Katy.

Gladys graduated from Streator High School with the class of 1946, Gladys attended Northern Illinois University where she received her bachelor’s in management, and master’s in economics. Furthering her education at the University of Illinois, where she received her Ph. D in Finance. Identifying the importance of education, Gladys dedicated her life to teaching at several college in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Georgia. Upon retirement, Gladys enjoyed many years as a Mary Kay Consultant where lifelong friendships were made. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, and a member of the Streator Leading Ladies.

As a child, Gladys enjoyed riding and showing horses along side her dad and brother. Family was of the upmost importance to Gladys. She would spend countless hours with her talent of knitting and crocheting clothing, and Afghans for her nieces and nephew. Gladys enjoyed traveling the states and several countries along side her lifelong friend Mary. She thoroughly enjoyed mowing her lawn and was meticulous with everything she would do. She enjoyed taking day trips, Engle Lane Theater, and the Cubs.

Gladys will be dearly missed and leave her legacy's of never ending love and care for her family, faith, and her willingness to serve others.

Following cremation, a visitation will be held Sunday (May 31st) from 2 – 3 PM at the Winterrowd Funeral Home with services following at 3PM. Burial will be in Hillcrest Memorial Park Cemetery at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the Livingston County Humane Society or to the First United Methodist Church.