Donald Lester Perry, 85, took his last earthly breaths peacefully on Tuesday March 13, 2018. Donald was a man who spoke through powerful actions, which transcended all spoken words. Those actions conveyed deep admiration, respect, and love for others, especially his family.
Donald did not want a memorial service or any “fanfare,” as he called it. He wanted to leave quietly. This is fitting, because in that quiet passing he leaves us with a feeling of strength, dignity, and honor in having known him and been loved by him. It truly has been an honor to be his daughter.
Five years ago, Donald lost his life’s love - his wife of 54 years, Joyce Estella Perry. The bright glow seen in his eyes in the accompany picture had gone and he grew older with each passing day. As I look at this picture my heart fills with inner happiness and peace that tells me he has that glow back brighter than ever and has grown to the strength of his youthful vigor. Back in the timeless presence of his Joyce.
The family will observe a private memorial. We ask if you drink – toast one to him; if you sing – sing a song to him; if you dance – dance a jig to him. And as you drink, sing, and/or dance feel the joy of life.
I leave you reader with the words of the man himself, “Don’t cry for me. I did what I came to do.”
May each of us, as we go forward with our lives, live with such purpose and dedication that when our time comes, we too can find it a time of joyousness and not grief.
Dad – you have been and always will be loved.
The family request any gifts or donations be made to www.kera.org/donate.
He is survived by his son Donald Lester Perry II and partner Thomas Harris of New York City, NY; daughter Jaquetta Perry of Wichita Falls, TX; sister: Jaquetta Robinson of Detroit, MI, Granddaughter Antonia Coffelt of Chicago, IL, and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by wife Joyce Estella Kirklin-Perry; father Freeman Frazier Perry; mother Joy Lee Goines-Perry; and sisters Shirley, Aundean Donaldson, and Penelope Green.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18