Gary Bruce Perdue
Gary Bruce Perdue, 80, of Bedford, Virginia, passed away on Friday, September 11, 2026, at his home.
Born December 29, 1945, in Roanoke, Virginia, Gary was the son of the late Raymond Perdue and Ollie Dangerfield Perdue.
Gary retired from Arctic Cat Corporation, where he worked as a sales representative, and was a longtime member of Otterville Church.
Gary had a deep love for his community and devoted many years of his life to serving others, especially children. He helped establish the Williamson Road Recreation Club, where he became a longtime leader in the organization, serving as both president and director. He also spent 25 years coaching, sharing not only his love of sports but his time, encouragement, and guidance with generations of young people.
For many years, Gary brought a little extra magic to the Christmas season by dressing as Santa Claus for children and families throughout the community. He was also a 32nd Degree Mason and a longtime member of the Kazim Shriners Clown Unit, where he continued doing what came naturally to him—bringing smiles and laughter to others while supporting the Shriners' charitable work.
Gary was an avid sports fan who loved following the Atlanta Braves, Virginia Tech Hokies, and Green Bay Packers. Whenever he had the opportunity, he especially enjoyed attending games in person. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing and treasured the time spent doing the things he loved with family and friends.
Above all, Gary was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Carmen Sottile Perdue; his sons, Gary Stuart Perdue (Shannon Cribbs), Ryan Todd Perdue (Tina Perdue), and Cory Scott Perdue (Mechelle Perdue); his grandsons, Logan Perdue, Owen Perdue, Noah Perdue, Aiden Perdue, and Kyle Perdue; his granddaughters, Morgan Perdue, Emmerson Perdue, and Avary Perdue; and his great-granddaughter, Ryker Perdue.
Those who knew Gary will remember a man who gave generously of his time, who loved his family and community, and who found great joy in making life a little happier for the people around him. His many years of coaching, community service, and bringing smiles to children leave a legacy that will continue through the countless lives he touched.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks those wishing to make a memorial contribution to consider Shriners Children’s, an organization that was especially meaningful to Gary.
The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. on Friday, October 9, 2026, at Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bedford. A memorial service will follow at 2:45 p.m. in the chapel, with the Rev. Mark Wilkerson officiating.
Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.
