Perry Bartlett

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - Perry Bartlett, a lifelong resident of Cookeville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday June 27, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on March 20, 1940, in Cookeville, Perry lived a life rooted in dedication to his family, faith, and community, touching the hearts of all who knew him.

Perry was a proud graduate of Cookeville Central High School, class of 1959. Shortly after completing his education, he married the love of his life, Nell, at Silver Point Church of Christ on December 12, 1959. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and partnership, standing strong throughout the decades and forming the foundation of a close-knit family.

A man of many talents and a tireless worker, Perry dedicated his life to agriculture and the building trades. As a farmer, he raised hogs, beef cattle, and sheep with unwavering commitment. He spent many years as a dairy farmer, caring for his cows from dawn until dusk. His deep respect for the land and animals was matched only by his skill as a carpenter, having built many homes in the community-a lasting legacy of his craftsmanship.

Perry’s leadership and service to others extended far beyond his professional life. He was an elder at Dry Valley Cumberland Presbyterian Church, where he provided steadfast guidance and spiritual support to his fellow congregants. He also served on the Putnam County Farm Bureau Board for an extraordinary 61 years, consistently advocating for the region’s farming families. His sense of civic duty was further exemplified during his 28 years on the Putnam County Election Commission, where he served as chair from 1993 to 2009, ensuring the integrity and fairness of local democratic processes. He was on the Putnam County Fair Board for many years, also serving as Fair Manager. He was also very active on many agricultural committees and boards, including USDA Farm Service agency, UT Extension, and others too numerous to mention.

Perry’s work and commitment to agriculture were recognized in 2013, when he was honored as a Farm Credit Services Mid America Heritage Farm Recipient. This distinction reflected his enduring impact on the region’s agricultural heritage and the respect he earned among his peers.

Family was the cornerstone of Perry’s life, and his memory will be cherished always by his beloved wife, Nell; his sons, Mark (special friend, Teraceia Tayse) Bartlett and Steve (Rhonda) Bartlett; his grandchildren, Justin (Lacey) Bartlett, Stephen (special friend, Gracee Morgan) Bartlett, Emily (Brandon) Harville, and Nick (fiancée, Hannah Caldwell) Bartlett; and his great-grandchildren, Lillian, Scarlett, Laylee, Zoey, and baby Winnie, expected to arrive in September 2026. Perry is also survived by his sister-in-law, Juanita Bartlett; nieces, Sherrye Clancy and Pam Campbell; and his devoted fur baby, Piper, who brought him great joy and companionship.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vance and Willie L. Nash Bartlett, and his brother, Jimmy Bartlett.

Perry’s steadfast work ethic, commitment to service, and genuine kindness set an example for all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy is carried on through his family, his contributions to the community, and the countless lives he touched with his generosity and wisdom.

A graveside service to honor Perry Bartlett’s well-lived life will be held at 12:00 noon on July 11, 2026, at Dry Valley Church Cemetery, located at 4415 Highway 70 East, Cookeville, TN 38506. Friends and loved ones are invited to gather as we remember a remarkable man whose presence, leadership, and love will be deeply missed.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Mark Bartlett, Steve Bartlett, Justin Bartlett, Stephen Bartlett, Nick Bartlett and Brandon Harville.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Dry Valley Cemetery, c/o Walt Crawford, 7850 Pleasant Ridge rd, Sparta, TN 38583

Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share your thoughts and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.