Walter “Dale” Perkins, born on August 29, 1962, at Portsmouth Naval Hospital in Norfolk, VA, he passed away peacefully after a courageous journey marked by strength, faith, and grace.

Dale was a fighter in every sense of the word. In his younger years, he was an undefeated Golden Gloves boxer in Lawrence, MA, where he developed not only discipline and resilience, but a lifelong determination that would define him.

He put himself through college, earning a bachelor’s in social work and a master’s in applied politics from the University of West Florida. Dale was Student Government President at UWF during the 1986-1987 academic year. He would later earn an additional master’s degree as a licensed clinical social worker through Florida State University. Dale dedicated his life to helping others working as a substance abuse counselor for many years where his compassion and lived understanding made a lasting impact on countless individuals and families. Dale also worked as a military and family life counselor in school settings.

His commitment to service extended to his community. Dale served as the longest-running elected Board Member on the Emerald Coast Utilities Authority. For decades during the summers, he found joy on the water as a fishing boat captain—known to many as “Captain Dale”—where his easy smile and perfectly timed humor made every trip memorable.

Dale lived a deeply spiritual life, one that was practiced, not preached. He faced his illness with dignity, grace, and an unwavering belief that his passing was a homegoing. He often reflected that we are spiritual beings having a human experience, and he looked forward to being reunited with his ancestors, even as he expressed love and sorrow in saying goodbye to those he cherished here.

He is preceded in death by his father, Larry Perkins, whom he lovingly helped care for.

Dale is survived by his daughters, Jade Perkins, whom he lovingly raised, and Stacey Livingston, whom he was grateful to discover later in life; mother, Marcia Perkins; brothers, Bill Perkins, Mike Perkins, and Jeff Perkins, (Lisa); sisters, Melanie McLaughlin, (Terry Libby Perkins), Sandi Winkler, (Dennis), and Patti Dunaway and her partner Robin, former spouse Robin Preer Perkins and son Jasper, and in laws Ronald and Sandra Preer.

Dale leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, colleagues, and dear friends. He will be deeply missed and remembered for a lifetime—and beyond—for his kindness, humor, resilience, and extraordinary generosity of spirit.