Janet Perry-Hooks passed on October 10 at age 70. Hooks lived a life of purpose, serving her city and dedicating herself to family. She will always be remembered for her brilliance, class, and unwavering care for her community.
Early Life and Education. Janet Perry-Hooks matriculated at Fisk University in Nashville and Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, KY.
She built a successful career as president and chief appraiser of her own real estate appraisal firm.
Hooks complemented her husband Michael in business as she did in life. The two were partners in all endeavors as well as loving parents.
Committed Public Servant. First elected to Memphis City Council in 1991, Hooks was a steadfast advocate for her constituents. She spearheaded crucial legislation to fund city services, protect public safety, and improve neighborhoods.
Her district benefited from her efforts to update zoning, support schools, create jobs, and more. Hooks provided opportunities for youth and fought tirelessly for her community.
City Council Leadership. During her council tenure, Hooks served as Chair of Public Works and Transportation, Vice Chair of Parks, and liaison to the Airport Authority.
Her keen leadership abilities led Mayor Herenton to appoint Hooks as Director of Public Services & Neighborhoods. She skillfully oversaw numerous departments and initiatives.
Civic Involvement. Beyond the council, Hooks gave her time to organizations like Girls Inc., Black Arts Alliance, Better Schools Committee and more. She was a graduate of Leadership Memphis.
Hooks received accolades for her service but remained humble. She worked steadily to lift up others.
Devotion to Family. As extraordinary as Hooks’ public service was, her family was always her top priority. She was a loving mother to Michael Jr., Kristin, Marcus and Tami, doting on her grandchildren.
She was also a loving and devoted stepdaughter to The Tennessee Tribune’s publisher, Rosetta Miller-Perry as well as being a caretaker for her husband’s aunts in their later years with dedication and compassion. Her kindness touched all she knew.
Lasting Legacy. Janet Hooks lived a life of purpose, grace and unwavering care for her city and family. Her dedication and brilliance left Memphis better. She will be dearly missed but her legacy endures through her lasting impact.
She leaves to mourn her loss: Michael Hooks Sr, husband; beloved daughter Kristin Hooks; two sons, Michael Hooks, Jr., and Marcus Hooks; a daughter-in-law, Judge Kenya Hooks; two granddaughters, Morgan and Miranda Hooks, sisters Anna Harris, Nashville, Pamela Dogan (Bill), Atlanta, Rosetta Miller-Perry, stepmother and her family: stepsister, Victoria DeBerry, and husband John Deberry III, MD, Buffalo, NY, and from Nashville, stepsister, Wanda Miller-Benson (Steven Earl), stepbrother, William Miller II, step-nephew James Artis, step-great-nephews, Brandon Sawyers and William Miller III.
