Paul D. Perdue Jr., age 84, of Defiance, Ohio, peacefully passed away surrounded by his loved ones on Saturday morning, September 5, 2026 at Steel Health & Rehab in Defiance.

He was born in Delaware, Ohio on September 4, 1942 to the late Geneva (Day) and Paul Perdue Sr. Paul is a proud Veteran of the U.S. Army and National Guard, serving from 1962 to 1964. On June 23, 1963 he married Terry Jervis, who preceded him in death on March 7, 2008.

Paul worked at General Motors for over 28 years until his retirement in 1993. He was a member of Defiance VFW #3360, AmVets #1991, Eagles #372 and Moose Lodge #2093. He was a caretaker and trainer of Race Horses with Jeff Batt for 30 years. Paul loved spending time with his family and being with his horses. He loved all animals, and was affectionately known by many as "Dr. Doolittle". In his leisure time he also enjoyed playing pool and belonged to several local pool leagues. He will be sadly missed by his family and many good friends.

Paul is survived by his children, Paula (Allen) Fairchild of Defiance, and Doug (Izzy) Perdue of Everett, WA, four grandchildren; Brittany (Ethan) Schroeder, Brandon Fairchild, Kayleigh Perdue, and Jessica (Joseph) Gabriel, eight great-grandchildren, and his sister, Sherry (Dan) Law of Columbus, OH.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his siblings; Betty Kroniger, Jim Perdue, Fannie Blackledge, and Doris Miller.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026 from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm at the funeral home, with Celebrant Tori Hope Petersen officiating. Paul's final resting place will be in Delaware, Ohio at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to Fort Defiance Humane Society.