Virgil Leonard Perry

(Retired, United States Army)

Surrounded by the love of his daughter, Master Sergeant Virgil Leonard Perry (Retired, United States Army), age 94, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, September 22, 2026.

A cherished and decorated veteran, born in Manchester, Ohio. He was the son of the late Wilbur R. and Marie Graham Perry. Virgil devoted his life to the service of his country and to the well-being of those around him. His bravery and commitment were evident from an early age, leading him to enlist in the military where he served with honor and distinction.

Virgil was a proud Army Combat Veteran who served multiple tours in Korea, Vietnam, Germany and Ethiopia earning him the Bronze Star and countless other medals, medallions and ultimately achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. Throughout his distinguished military career, he was respected not only for his leadership, work ethic, and operational expertise, but for his unique ability to bring light to the most stressful situations. Whether in the barracks, on deployment, or during high-stakes operations, Virgil’s quick wit and perfectly timed jokes were a constant source of morale for his fellow service members.

His time in service shaped the strong sense of duty, resilience, and compassion that he carried throughout his life. He demonstrated unwavering courage and a deep sense of duty. He had the heart of a servant, always willing to help anyone in need, and he lived his life taking care of others before himself. Virgil’s dedication to his comrades and his country was a testament to his character, and his legacy as a hero will be remembered by all who knew him.

Upon retiring from the Army as a Master Sergeant, Virgil continued to serve his community teaching ROTC at the University of Dayton and Central State. During his second career, he earned his degree and then eventually retired from General Motors.

A proud Kentucky Colonel with an exterior that was as tough as nails, he had an unshakeable sense of humor. Virgil was a generous friend and possessed an uncanny ability to connect to just about anyone. He had a brilliant mind, disarming wit, and an empathetic heart. He had a rare gift of building community wherever he found himself. Whether he was traveling to the Smokies or cheering on his favorite Ohio teams, Virgil lived life with a sense of adventure and home-state pride.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered, but his legacy of service, love, and sacrifice will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Rhonda Perry and was the last of his siblings: brothers, Wilbur Perry Jr., James, George and Bill Perry and a sister, Katherine “Sis” Baldwin.

Survived by sons Roger (Darla), Rick (Karen), Randy (Lisa), and daughter and caretaker Lisa (Maz); grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

"Thank you for always letting me be me. Your love gave me strength, and I will carry you with me always. I love you."

Lisa

A Hero’s Farewell

Visitation will be held at Tobias Funeral Home - Beavercreek Chapel, 3970 Dayton-Xenia Rd, Dayton, Ohio 45432, on October 1, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Interment will take place at Dayton National Cemetery, 4400 West Third Street, Dayton, OH 45428, on October 5, 2026, at 2:00 pm.