Arleen Perkins

ARLEEN T. PERKINS, affectionately known as "Toe", was born on July 15, 1953. She was the fifth born of nine children to the late Luther, Sr. and Catherine Thomas. She departed this life suddenly on July 21, 2020.

Arleen studied at Fairmount Hill High School where she graduated as a licensed cosmetologist.

Upon graduation, Arleen immediately began her career as a hair stylist at the Pentridge House of Beauty. She later worked at Riley's Hair Salon where she became a Master Stylist. After many years of working for others, Arleen became the owner/operator of Head to Toe Salon. I'll curl up and dye for you' was her professional mantra and could be found on her business cards and throughout her salon.

Arleen's love of caring for people moved her career into a different direction. She became Maryland State certified as a home health care provider working for the Maryland Department of Health (and Mental Hygiene) for twelve years. After her time at MDH, Arleen worked as Home Health Care Provider House Manager at Creative Options. She would travel to neighboring states with her clients for social outings and visits with clients family members.

Arleen worked as a mail clerk for Blue Cross and Blue Shield for ten years and also at the Charles H. Hickey, Jr. School, while somehow still finding time to continue servicing clients as a hair stylist.

Arleen had a zest for life. She was an excellent cook and baker, and was frequently called upon to prepare her famous potato salad for family functions. Arleen loved to entertain and has hosted some of the best house parties that many of us have experienced.

Arleen was preceded in death by her parents, Luther, Sr. and Catherine; and brothers Luther, Jr. and Earl.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories; her beloved son, Sidney Cook, Jr.; her precious grandchildren, Sidney Cook, III (Stephanie) and Shanell Cook; great grandchildren, Malik, Sydnee, and Makori; daughter-in-love, Contrina; devoted sisters, Catherine Crawford, Maria Rose (James), Thomasina Carey, Celia Fitzgerald (Steve), Nora Thomas, Jacqueline Thomas and Beatrice Thomas; seven godchildren and a host of relatives and friends