Percy Harold Perkins, Jr. (1905-1998) was born in Metter, Georgia, to Percy Harold Perkins (1876-1948) and Bertha Mae Warwick Perkins (1882-1968). Perkins attended Georgia School of Technology in Atlanta, Georgia, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in architecture in 1927. During his college years he was involved in several organizations including ROTC and Pi Kappa Alpha. After graduation, Perkins served as a colonel in the United States Air Reserve.

In 1933, Perkins married Mary Louise Martin (1911-1962) in Flemington, Georgia. They had no children, and Mary spent a portion of her time assisting Perkins as a color consultant for the interior design of his buildings, and the rest of her time as a portrait artist. Perkins started his career as an architect in Atlanta in 1938, working largely on a variety of projects, including designing administration buildings, shopping centers, schools, and churches.

During World War II he served as Task Commander for the 12th Armored Group, the 191st Tank Battalion, and the 16th Armored Division. In 1945, he accepted the surrender of Pilsen, Czechoslovakia (modern, Czech Republic) from the occupying German garrison.

In 1951, he opened his own private practice in Atlanta under the name of Percy H. Perkins Junior & Associates, which was located at 3110 Maple Drive in the Buckhead area of Atlanta, Georgia. His wife, Mary, died in the 1962 Atlanta Art Association plane crash in Orly, France. Perkins was a member of many organizations such as American Institute of Architects; Gate City Guard; Kiwanis Club; and the Sandy Springs Civic Club.