MCKENZIE, Tenn. – Bethel University and the Bethel Athletic Department are mourning the loss a beloved longtime fan and supporter. Demetra Perkins who was loved and revered at Bethel passed away Tuesday.
Demetra along with her husband Ed were inducted into the Bethel University Hall-of-Fame this past October.
Supporting Bethel was a vital part of Demetra’s life.
She sponsored a yearly dinner for the incoming Bethel Lady Wildcat basketball squad to show them the entire community was interested in them and supported them.
Demetra’s love of basketball was cemented when she made the roster of the Gibson High team.
Her connection with Bethel basketball, however, started at age twelve when she along with her parents from Gibson came to watch the Bethel men’s basketball team because her brother, Harold was the starting center for the Wildcats for four years. The colorful Coach Casey Vinson left quite an impression on a twelve year old.
When it came to college there was no doubt she was going to Bethel. She was elected “Miss Bethel”. She served as secretary to the student council before graduating in 1960.
Her first teaching job was at Cannon Elementary in Carroll County where she was also the girls’ basketball coach.
Demetra later taught at McKenzie Elementary and was there 28 years.
She received her Master’s from Murray State and did additional graduate work at the University of Kentucky specializing in reading. She set up the remedial reading program at McKenzie Elementary. She later served as adjunct teacher working with student-teachers at Bethel for five years and at Union University for three years.
Ed and Demetra met at Bethel and have one daughter Dee Ann who is also a Bethel grad. They have one granddaughter, Drew.
Women’s Basketball Coach Chris Nelson said, “We are so saddened to hear of the loss of our beloved friend. She was always one of our biggest supporters. Every year she invited our players and coaches into her home for a preseason meal. She will always hold a special place in our hearts and be a big part of our program. It is fitting her and Mr. Ed were inducted into our Hall-of -Fame last year. We will miss her and yet we know she will always be with us in spirit.”
Associate Director of Athletics, Brad Chappell added, “Ed and Demetra are special people. This university is better because of people like them. We have been blessed to have their support and love. She will be missed by us all. Our prayers with Ed and the family.”
Bethel University Director of Sports Information Dave McCulley commented, “Ed and Demetra have been as much Bethel as the Purple and Gold or the Wildcat. Their love and support of Bethel and the athletic programs has been phenomenal. She truly is one of the sweetest people I have ever known. When she wasn’t able to attend the games she always listened and sent words of love and encouragement. Our love and prayers to Ed, Dee Ann, Drew and the entire family.”
Bethel Director of Athletics Dale Kelley said, “We are stunned by this news. Ed and Demetra have been two of our biggest supporters and are very beloved here at Bethel. They have contributed in so many ways in support of our student-athletes and coaches. Her love for our coaches and student athletes has been unparalleled. We will miss her and we send out thoughts and prayers to Ed, Dee Ann and the entire family.”
Brummitt McKenzie Funeral Home is in charge of services. Services are set for Sunday, March 10 at the McKenzie First Cumberland Presbyterian Church at 4:30 p.m. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. at the church.
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