Occasionally in life, you are blessed to know someone whose presence alone makes the world feel warmer and more hopeful. Someone whose joy is contagious, and whose kindness and faith quietly shape every room she enters. The phrase “sunny disposition” could have been written for such a person.

Beverly Perez was one of those rare souls. To know her was to love her—and to feel loved by her in return.

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of our beloved sister and aunt, Beverly L. Gray Perez, age 73. After a brief period of declining health, she passed peacefully in the early morning hours of December 26, 2025. During her hospitalization, Bev was surrounded by love—held close by family who showered her with care, prayer, and gratitude for a life so beautifully lived.

Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, Bev was the youngest daughter of the late Noah and Frieda Gray. She was a cherished sister to Renauta Sullivan, a beloved aunt to Elissa (Marc) Rodrigues, Lauren (Darin) Hunt, Clayton (Marla) Jacob, and Cara (Anthony) Neff, and an adored great-aunt to their children.

She is survived by her former husband, Ramiro Perez. 

A lifelong learner and devoted servant of faith, Bev attended Lindbergh High School, Southeast Missouri State (SEMO) University, and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Following seminary, she moved to Oklahoma City, where she served as Director of the Baptist Mission Center, guiding children and adults alike toward Christ with compassion, humility, and unwavering devotion.

Upon returning to Missouri, Bev began a 21-year calling as a first-grade teacher at Seckman Elementary School. Known affectionately as “Perez’s Pirates,” her classroom was filled with warmth, laughter, and love. Former students and colleagues remember her as someone who made children feel seen, valued, and deeply cared for.

Bev was also a devoted member and volunteer at Windsor Baptist Church, where she was especially loved for her joyful children’s sermons and gentle, faithful spirit.

She lived her life JOY-fully, guided by the principle she embodied every day:

J – Jesus first

O – Others second

Y – Yourself last

Bev leaves behind her loving family, dear friends, and all whose lives were touched by her kindness, faith, and spirit. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of love lives on—in lives changed, faith strengthened, and joy freely given. She is now in her Heavenly home, rejoicing with Jesus, and resting in eternal peace.

In lieu of flowers, Bev’s family is requesting donations be made to Seckman Elementary School in memory of Perez’s Pirates.  2824 Seckman Road Imperial, MO 63052 (636) 296-2030