

He was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on December 6, 1939, the son of Audrey Lowe and William Perry Hunt. Perry’s childhood was spent in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with summers in North Carolina. He served in the Army and completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Business from the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga. In 1965, he began his sales career with Royal Typewriter Company, then moved his family to Greensboro in 1971 to start his successful career with Avery Dennison, where he managed commercial sales for brands such as Revlon. Perry consistently ranked amongst the top sales performers, receiving multiple Achievement and President Club awards. He remained good friends with his sales colleagues he met during his 25+ years.
In 1999, Perry and his wife, Suzanne, moved to Southport, NC, and quickly immersed themselves at the coast, enjoying a slower pace and sunsets by the river. They lovingly restored the George Cotten Home, which was featured in the annual historic home tours. He went on to help restore an antique fire truck that was seen during the July 4th and Christmas Parades of Southport. His grandchildren had the best time riding alongside Granddaddy Perry in the front cab or pretending to drive. He shared his love of cars with his grandsons by taking them to car shows and many years later, patiently teaching them how to drive. He is remembered especially for the many great times with family at his backyard pool.
Perry was an active member of the Cape Fear Yacht Club, serving as membership chair; enjoyed Tai-Chi classes several times a week at the Senior Center; volunteered for flag ceremonies in the town square with his buddies; and loved invitations from the ladies to play bridge. He never missed breakfast and was always cooking a huge feast. He had an open-door policy for his friends to stop by anytime, for a swim, or to borrow his truck, or to enjoy happy hour. Perry took a genuine interest in others and was always willing to offer a helping hand. He loved taking family on a tour around town in his golf cart, waving to everyone along the way. All loved his quiet demeanor, big heart, and easy-going nature.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 34 years, Suzanne; his daughters, Cornelia (husband Stephen) and Caroline (husband Patrick); his cherished grandchildren, Miles, Reed, and Grace.
Perry's family and friends will celebrate his life the way he wanted with an intimate service at Saint Philip's Episcopal Church, a celebration toast at happy hour, and a sunrise cruise the next day.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Duke & UNC ADRC, a leading North Carolina-based hub advancing early detection and treatment research for Alzheimer's and related dementias, including vascular and Lewy body dementia https://dukeuncadrc.org/ or Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Foundation https://lifecare.org/donate
Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com
Peacock - Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport, North Carolina.
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