John, 87, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, after a long battle with dementia. His devoted wife, Carolyn and loyal caregivers were faithfully by his side.
John was born on June 21, 1936, in Manatee County, Florida to W.W. and Menla Perry, both long deceased. He his survived by his loving wife, Carolyn; seven children, Mendy Coker (Robert), John Perry, Jr. (Sandy), Wesley Perry (Michelle), Albert Perry (Sissy), Godfrey Perry (Giselle), Kamy Brandenburg, and Kasady Quaid, twenty grandchildren and six great grandchildren.
John was raised
in Clewiston, Florida where he excelled both athletically
and academically.
He graduated from Clewiston High School in 1954 winning the Kiwanis Club’s award for Outstanding Male Student and the community’s admiration for his superior athletic prowess and achievements.
John graduated from Florida State University in 1958 where he continued to excel and be recognized for his academic achievements. He would remain a lifelong Noles fan and his fervent loyalty would become legendary, which he has passed
on to his children and grandchildren.
John returned to his hometown of Clewiston, Florida where he thrived in his practice as a C.P.A. He was unselfishly devoted to his community and the people in it serving as a city commissioner as well as Mayor of Clewiston and being one of the most popular candidates in city history. He was happy to give his time, ability, and skill to the town he loved. He was never too busy (except perhaps during tax season) to talk to residents about their concerns and to show kindness without exception to those in need.
John was an enthusiastic member of the Lions Club, of which his father was a charter member, and numerous other service clubs. He served on the board of the Clewiston Drainage District, as well as being Chairman and acting President of First Federal Bank of the Glades. He was recognized by the citizens of Clewiston
for his sterling qualities and dedication to the community with the Outstanding Community Service Award in 1997.
John was committed to living a Christian
life. He passionately believed in spreading a message of love and hope to those who struggled with drug and alcohol problems. He was active in outreach and his belief in recovery. John believed that through Christ and the loving support of his wife Carolyn he was able to find sobriety
and maintain it, forever changing his life.
John was a devoted loving father and grandfather, who actively participated in his children’s activities by coaching baseball and football. John served as President for the Junior Football Association and the Tiger Boosters, and he continued that support to include his grandchildren and their athletic endeavors.
John lived his life as
a Christian gentleman and believed his greatest attributes were his sharp sense of humor and quick wit in any conversation. Those who knew John and spent time in his company would say they came away from it feeling better than when they arrived.
John and his loving wife Carol retired to their home in Tallahassee where John was able to attend athletic events for his beloved Noles and enjoy an occasional round of golf. He was affectionately looked after by his beloved cats, who were never far from his side. John and Carol lived a life full of love and devotion to one another. They worked alongside one another and traveled the world together. John’s love for Carol and their beautiful life together serves as an example of what it means to truly have a partner for life. Carol will be left with years of love and special memories.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, August 11th at Fresh Life Church, 4852 Mahan Dr., Tallahassee, FL. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers the family asks that a donation
be made in his name to Fresh Life Church so they can continue the good Christian works that John so strongly believed in. Lifesong
(lifesongfunerals.com or 850-765-3190) is assisting the family with arrangements.