Thomas Allen Perryman

Thomas “Tom” Perryman, of Catoosa, Oklahoma, passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the age of 75.

Tom was born on November 10, 1950, to Cecil and Lillian Perryman. He spent his life rooted in family, community, and a deep love for sports.

Tom and Rita’s love story began early. They met in the third grade, and Rita went home that very day and told her mom she was going to marry him—and she did. They grew up together in Catoosa, where they were even crowned homecoming football king and queen their senior year. They married in 1969 and, 18 months later, welcomed their first daughter, Kim, followed by Kelly and Kristy.

Tom was the ultimate girl dad. He proudly coached the Catoosa Redhots girls’ softball team, leading them to become Tulsa City Champions. He loved his girls dearly, praised them when they deserved it, and when they didn’t, well… they knew it. The Perryman house was the hangout for the girls, his nieces and nephews, and all of their friends, and that tradition carried on with the grandkids and their friends—full of pranks, tricks, and jokes.

A proud supporter of the Oklahoma Sooners, Tom rarely missed a football or softball game and cheered them on… until they started to lose. Like many devoted fans, Tom had a knack for knowing exactly when to step away once the scoreboard was no longer in his favor. The same could be said for his beloved Catoosa Indians—he showed up, griped about the coaches, and kept a very close eye on the score.

Tom also loved spending time on the golf course and out on the water fishing, enjoying both for the peace, the challenge, and the time spent with others. He and Rita shared many special vacations to Las Vegas and Laughlin, Nevada, where Tom played in many golf tournaments, while Rita gambled away his winnings and the girls stayed home under grandma Lois supervision throwing parties that uncle Jerry and Dudley busted, but swore they would never tell as long as they got to keep the beer. Tom didnt find out until the girls were grown.

When it came to family gatherings, Tom was always ready for a little competition. No matter who stepped up to play him—especially in a game of Horse—he was the one to beat, and more often than not, no one could.

Tom also had a love for garage sales and never passed up a good find. He was always willing to wheel and deal, and if there was a bargain to be made, Tom was the one making it. In fact, he was so dedicated to a good deal that he even haggled Teri at the flower shop every single year for Rita’s Valentine’s flowers—proving that even romance came with a little negotiation.

Tom was a constant presence in the stands for what mattered most—his grandchildren. He was deeply involved in their lives, rarely missing their games, activities, or special moments. He also proudly coached Ashleys basketball team and would also show up to Madison and Caitlynns basketball practices to help out when needed, continuing his legacy of coaching and encouraging others.

Tom is survived by his wife, Rita; his daughters, Kim and Jeremie Hinds of Muskogee, Kelly and Ryan Duvall of Catoosa, and Kristy Johnson of Catoosa; 11 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Lillian Perryman; his brothers, Dewey and Kenny Perryman; and his granddaughter, Brianna Laidley.

Tom may not have been in church every Sunday, but his faith was always present. He loved God deeply and was faithful in his prayers, carrying that quiet strength with him throughout his life.

Those who knew Tom will remember him for his dedication, his sense of humor, and his love for his family. He found joy in the simple moments—game days, time spent with loved ones, rounds of golf, days spent fishing, family competition, treasure hunting at garage sales, and time away with Rita. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A service to celebrate Tom’s life will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Woodcrest Free Will Baptist Church in Catoosa. In lieu of food or gatherings, the family asks that you honor Tom’s wishes—he made it very clear he didn’t want anyone eating or celebrating, and would’ve preferred everyone spend the day a little miserable in his honor. 😂