Walking With Us Still: In Memory of Father Perkins


Last night, I read of the passing of Father Ron Perkins, the Senior Chaplain for Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, the Fort Lauderdale Police Department, and our community and for once, I found myself at a loss for words. (Yes, I know… doesn’t happen often.)

Father Perkins wasn’t just a man of faith; he was a quiet source of strength, comfort, and compassion for so many in our fire and police family. He showed up when it mattered most, offering prayers, wisdom, and that warm, reassuring presence that always made the heavy moments feel a little lighter.

The last time we spoke, true to form, he asked about my family. Kevin, Kira, and Corwin. I caught him up on Kevin’s hospital stay back in November, shared the latest on Kira’s health, and we had a good laugh over the fact that I still hadn’t convinced Corwin to move to Florida. It was a quick conversation, but his smile lit it up like it always did. That was Father Perkins—present, kind, and always making others feel seen.

As tears have threatened all day long, I saw this poem on my fridge and today, it feels like it was written just for him. For those who knew him, loved him, and were blessed by his kindness. 💔

Don’t remember me with sadness,
Don’t remember me with tears,
Remember all the laughter,
We’ve shared throughout the years.
Now I am contented,
That my life it was worthwhile,
Knowing that as I passed along the way,
I made somebody smile.
When you are walking down the street,
And you’ve got me on your mind,
I’m walking in your footsteps,
Only half a step behind.
So please don’t be unhappy,
Just because I’m out of sight,
Remember that I’m with you,
Each morning, noon and night.

Thank you, Father Perkins, for walking with us, and for still walking just half a step behind.  You will be missed, but never forgotten.

📸: Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue

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