Jeri Perry Hooks, passed away on December 5, 2024, at the age of 70 after a several-year journey with Dementia. Jeri was born on November 12, 1954, in Princeton, KY to the late James “Pooch” and Dixie Ray Perry.
A proud graduate of Caldwell County High School, class of 1972, Jeri’s pursuit of education led her to Murray State University. Here she completed her bachelor’s degree in 1976 and went on to complete an additional fifth year with a focus on special education. With knowledge as her vessel, Jeri served the Caldwell County School system across various capacities for over 25 years, culminating until her retirement in 2012 as the Adult Learning Center Coordinator. Her passion for education was evident, not only in her profession but also in her dedication to helping countless individuals achieve their GED.
Jeri’s commitment to her community was multifaceted. Her roles ranged from writing the original grant for the Caldwell County FFA Greenhouses to active participation in the DAR. She held membership in numerous committees and boards such as the Princeton Extension Committee, Pennyrile Mental Health Board, and the Culinary Advisory Committee. Her civic engagement earned her the honor of 2011 Person of the Year from the Princeton BPW. Before her distinguished career in education, she effectuated change for the State of Kentucky Employment Services in Hopkinsville, showcasing her varied talents and unwavering commitment to service.
Family and friends held a paramount place in Jeri’s heart. In her time before dementia, she was a voracious reader who reveled in the suspense of murder mysteries and challenged her mind with trivia. A creative soul, Jeri expressed herself through pottery and painting, and her talent for playing the piano filled many rooms with joy. A culinary artist at heart, she would often be found baking exquisite wedding and birthday cakes or catering meals that delighted many. Together with her beloved husband, Jeri traversed 46 states and 6 Canadian provinces, nurturing a special love for lighthouses. Jeri was a devout member of Second Baptist Church in Princeton, Jeri’s generosity extended into initiatives like the Christmas Shoebox ministry and King’s Kitchen.
Survivors include her husband of 44 years, Paul Hooks; daughter, Jessica Hooks Scott (David) of Lancaster, KY; son, Perry Hooks of Lexington, KY; sister Melissa Nichols of Princeton; niece, Catharine Crague; nephews, Taylor Hooks and Mackenzie Nichols; great-nephews, Mason Crague and Carter Crague.
Visitation for Jeri Hooks will be held on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Morgan’s Funeral Home in Princeton.
Funeral services will follow at 2:00 PM at Morgan’s Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made in Jeri’s memory to Princeton Second Baptist Church: P.O. Box 662, Princeton, KY 42445 or to Kings Kitchen: P.O. Box 684, Princeton, KY 42445
Morgan’s Funeral Home in Princeton is in charge of arrangements.
