Gloria Helen Perkins

Gloria Helen Perkins, 90, passed away peacefully at her home on July 19, 2026, in St. Augustine, Florida, following a long and courageous journey with Alzheimer’s disease. She was surrounded by the love of her devoted life partner of 45 years, Elton Knowles, as well as cherished family members and dear friends. Gloria was born on September 6, 1935, in Laconia, New Hampshire, to Evan Clair LaMott and Helen Fogg LaMott, and was raised in New Hampton, New Hampshire. She was predeceased by her parents; her beloved son, Peter Perkins, following his lifelong battle with spina bifida; and her sister, Betty Joyce LaMott. She is survived by her loving partner, Elton Knowles; her daughter, Paula Duffy; her sister, Victoria Jean LaMott; her brother, Harold Clair LaMott; her stepchildren, Sandi Soucy, Mark Knowles, and Darci Knowles; and several beloved grandchildren, including Kate Soucy, Daniele Hosser, Chad Cyr, Kye Christensen-Knowles, Cody Christensen-Knowles, and Luke Knowles. To her grandchildren, she was simply “Gigi”—a name spoken with love that reflected the special place she held in their hearts. She also leaves behind extended family members and countless friends whose lives were enriched by her warmth and kindness. Though she endured the heartbreaking loss of her son, Peter, after his long and courageous fight with spina bifida, Gloria continued to meet life with grace, resilience, and an unwavering devotion to her family, friends, students, and community. Gloria graduated from Plymouth State College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education. She taught thirty years; the last eighteen at York Middle School in York, Maine. A gifted educator, she touched the lives of generations of students with her patience, encouragement, and unwavering belief in the potential of every child. Teaching was more than a profession to Gloria—it was a calling. Throughout her life, Gloria embraced beauty, learning, friendship, and fun. She was an accomplished tennis player and instructor who later discovered a love of golf, a sport she enjoyed sharing with Elton. She was an avid reader, a talented pianist, and a joyful singer who treasured her years performing in chorus alongside dear friends. Gloria loved entertaining and welcoming others into her home, where music, laughter, and conversation were always plentiful. Her perennial gardens reflected the same care and attention she gave to the people in her life. She delighted in watching and caring for her birds, treasured days spent shopping with her daughter and friends, and had a lifelong appreciation for fashion and antiques. Her beloved Australian Terrier, Saucy, brought her endless companionship and joy. Those who knew Gloria will remember her as someone who made friends wherever she went. She was selfless, compassionate, and generous with her time and affection. She loved to dance, laugh, and celebrate life’s simple pleasures. Her fish chowder was legendary among family and friends, and her welcoming spirit made everyone feel at home. Above all, Gloria was an extraordinary teacher, mother, sister, partner, grandmother, and friend. Her love, kindness, and generosity touched countless lives, and her legacy lives on in the many people fortunate enough to have known her. Gloria Helen Perkins will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of sharing in her remarkable life. A memorial service will be held in York, Maine, and announced by the family for some time in September. In Lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association: https://www.alz.org/. Those desiring may leave messages of sympathy and encouragement by going to her tribute page at: https://www.stjohnsfamilyfuneralhome.com/obituaries/gloria-perkins-2/#!/TributeWall. St. Johns Family Funeral Home of St. Augustine is assisting the family with arrangements.

Gloria Helen Perkins

September 6, 1935 - July 19, 2026