Dr. Michael Wayne Perkins

Dr. Michael Wayne Perkins, beloved husband, son, brother, father, grandfather, physician, and friend, passed away suddenly on July 25, 2025, at the age of 59.

Born in Houston, Texas, on December 21, 1965, Mike embodied a life of deep faith, quiet strength, and unwavering kindness. A graduate of New Caney High School in 1984, he continued his studies at East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, Texas, earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry in 1990 and also studying Biology. He went on to attend Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine, where he followed his calling to become a pediatrician. Having experienced childhood illness himself, Mike’s compassion for children came naturally. Though he was never able to have biological children, he poured his heart into the lives of his stepchildren and countless young patients.

Since 2001, Dr. Mike served families in DeRidder, Louisiana, through Perkins Pediatric Clinic, where his care was known to be deeply personal and faith-filled. His clinic was filled with warmth, Christian music, and the love of God. He was more than a doctor—he ministered through medicine. One mother shared, “He’s cared for my daughter since birth, 15 years ago. We loved him dearly and will miss him greatly.” 

Mike married his high school sweetheart, Shannon Nichols, in 2012. Their love story began when she was in middle school and he was in high school, exchanging handwritten notes that marked the beginning of a lifelong bond. Their marriage was rooted in faith, mutual encouragement, and joy. Mike supported Shannon in all things—especially her new business, which he proudly promoted. He often called her “My Shannon” and sent her flowers just because—his way of reminding her how deeply she was loved.

Mike grew up in New Caney, where he was active in the youth group at Bethel Baptist Church. He raised his children in the church with his former spouse and, after marrying Shannon, was baptized into the Church of Christ, where they worshipped together. Mike lived with God first, then family, then work. He believed the best antidote to stress was prayer. His social media was filled with scripture and encouragement.

Mike is survived by his devoted wife of thirteen years, Shannon Nichols Perkins; children, Alyssa Warwick (Gage) of Portage, IN; Tiffany Evans (Ben) of Mt. Vernon, TX; and Timothy Canales (Madison) of Lubbock, TX; grandchildren, Evie, Ellie, Kai, Rosie, and Titus. He is also survived by his mother, Linda Perkins of New Caney, TX; his brother, David Perkins (Quinn) of New Caney, TX; his sister, Carla Perkins Holifield (Russell) of Fruitvale, TX; and his half-brother, Leslie Perkins of Phenix, AL. Mike was deeply loved by many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Those who knew Mike remember him as a “gentle giant”—a kind, soft-spoken man with a servant’s heart and playful spirit. He was known to joke with his coworkers and deliver unforgettable pranks, including surprise Nerf gun battles around the office. Even when his coworkers thought they had “stuck” one to him, Mike always managed to turn the tables—usually with a stinkier, funnier surprise that left everyone laughing. His care didn’t stop at medicine—he ministered, encouraged, and served with love.

Though he didn’t have children of his own, Mike took fatherhood seriously. He made sure his children were raised in the church and showed up for them with generosity and heart. He loved with every ounce of his soul—especially Shannon.

Shannon and Mike often said to each other, “Love you to the moon and back and then some, forever and ever, always.” As one wise physician once said, “The best medicine for humans is care and love.” When asked what to do if that doesn’t work, the answer was simple: “Increase the dose.” That was Mike—always increasing the dose of love.

Public visitation will be held Friday, August 1, from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 12:00 PM at Myers Colonial Funeral Home in DeRidder, LA. James Patterson will officiate the service. Graveside service and burial will be held Saturday, August 2, at 12:30 PM at Pace-Stancil Cemetery, Coldspring, TX.

Please keep Shannon, the Perkins family, and all who loved Mike in your prayers during this time of profound loss.