Perry Steve Baniakas, 95, went home to be with The Lord on February 24, 2018.

He was born on April 2, 1922 in Albany, GA. His family moved to Pensacola in 1942 and opened The Tiny Waffle Shop on Palafox St. and a short time later, The Brass Lantern. He proudly served in the US Navy after attending R.O.T.C at Fort Barrancas.

Perry and his brother George were owners of The Driftwood Restaurant on Garden St. (1960-81). He hosted many celebrities and gave much of his time and managing talents to an annual charitable golf tournament. In 1974 he opened the iconic Perry's Seafood House. The Blue Angels often made Perry's their destination after a busy week. Many Pensacolians still crave the excellent service, atmosphere and recipes of his two restaurants. He excelled at and dearly loved the restaurant business. Perry displayed, demanded and taught an incredible work ethic and gave of himself to friends and family. Perry loved fishing, "frying those fish" and hunting. His annual game dinner was always something to look forward to by his fellow huntsman and their wives. Hosting a party with wonderful food was Perry's way of giving back. He had a great love of getting people together and spending time with them. Into his 90's, he and his wife continued to host past employee gatherings, game dinners and attending Blue Angel reunions where many wonderful memories were recounted. He enjoyed sharing stories and "keeping busy" with those close to him, old and new friends alike. Perry volunteered his time and talents to many friends over the years, from hosting tours and pulling tickets at Joe Patti's Seafood House to driving the tractor and helping children pick strawberries at B. J. Farms. He and his wife enjoyed keeping their extensive recipe book up to date, canning fresh fruits and vegetables, making jellies, baking Greek pastries and fresh pasta. They gave these gifts freely to the fortunate folks who chose to be in their lives. A highlight in Perry's last decade of life was his trip to Washington D.C. on a Veteran's Honor Flight.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Steve Perry and Catherine Baniakas; his first wife, Bernadean; his brothers, Chris (Melba) and George (Roberta); his sister, Helen (Chick) Melton and brother-in-law, Archie (Bebe) Reeves.

He is survived by his loving bride of 24 years, Claude R. Baniakas; stalwart sister, Rebecca McArthur; a son, Perry Steve II; as well as three grandchildren, Sallie, Cathy and Perry Steve III and a brother-in-law, Dr. Mallory (Martha) Reeves.

Visitation will be held 10:00am until a Funeral Service to begin at 11:00am Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church with Father Matthew Carter officiating. Burial will follow at Bayview Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be Rick Metzgar, Frank Patti Jr, Scott Rich and Mark Wilde. Honorary Pallbearers will be Tony Minton, Larry Parent and Frank Patti Sr.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to a charity of your choice.

Thanks to Covenant Care for excellent guidance and care in Perry's last weeks with us.