Mr. Jeffrey Alex Perry, age 60, of Cleveland, GA, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, on July 24, 2022. He passed peacefully with his wife and sister by his side.
Born April 11, 1962, Mr. Jeffrey (Jeff) Alex Perry was preceded in death by his father, Mr. Harold K. Perry, father-in-law Mr. Alton F. Richards, paternal and maternal grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friend and brother-in-law, Mr. Al Richards and wife, Kellie.
Jeff is survived by his wife and the love of his life, Dr. Gloria Richards Perry of Cleveland, GA; one daughter and son-in-law, Mrs. Heather (Scott) Jordan and one granddaughter Ashlyn; his mother, Ms. Elizabeth (Betty) Henderson Perry Forbush; his sister, Mrs. Jennifer Perry (Henry) Watson; mother-in-law, Ms. Bobbie Jeanette Richards; sister-in-laws, Ms. Teresa Garrett and Mrs. Vivian (Alan) Bennett; aunts, Ms. Dorothy “Dot” Thomas and Mrs. Betty (Lloyd) O’Bryant; uncle, Mr. Donald (Carolyn) Perry; a multitude of beloved nieces and nephews, cousins, friends and their “adopted daughter”, Ashlee Trammel.
Jeff attended Forsyth County High School in Cumming, GA where he graduated in 1980. From there, he pursued a career as a local tax assessor and then ultimately pursued a career in Information Technology and Networking Engineering where he excelled at a master level over the last few decades.
As a young child, Jeff was a marvel. He was brilliant, talented, creative, loving, compassionate and kind. He was also an especially gifted athlete.
In 7th grade, Jeffrey was noticed by legendary Coach Vince Dooley as a potential recruit for The University of Georgia football team. Most notably, however, Jeff was known for his high school basketball career at Forsyth County High School where he played under former renowned coach, Phil Meadows. Jeff was reported to be the first player in the history of the school to ever dunk a basketball during a game. He would bring the crowds to their feet, the fans would roar, and “The Dome” would erupt when Jeff would find his way to the basket with a breakaway dunk.
Unbeknownst to many, Jeff was equally as gifted in music, and he could play guitar, keyboard, percussion, brass and woodwind instruments with ease. Jeff also played, for a season, for the Flash of Crimson Band.
Jeff grew to love and appreciate the simple life and thrived in the coolness of the mountain air of Cleveland, GA where he lived with his wife for the past 34 years. Together, they enjoyed homesteading and raising their many animals. Jeff had a deep appreciation for nature and an unparalleled love for his pets, an extension of his family. Instinctively, animals were drawn to Jeff and his gentle spirit.
Additionally, Jeff was a family historian and colorful storyteller, much to the delight of his extended family, especially his younger cousins.
In his last days, Jeff continued to think of others and shared many stories and great wisdom with those around him.
Standing at 6’7”, Jeff was described as a gentle giant. Those who knew him loved him, and there will never be another to fill his shoes.
The family will receive friends at Barrett Funeral Home in Cleveland, GA on Wednesday, July 27 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. They will celebrate Mr. Perry’s life in a service at the chapel at Barrett Funeral Home on Thursday, July 28 at 2:00 PM. Interment will follow at Yonah View Memorial Gardens, and the service will be officiated by friend and former teammate, Rev. David Harris.
To Share a memory or leave condolences please go to www.barrettfh.com
Barrett Funeral Home of Cleveland is in charge of arrangements. 706-865-3101 www.barrettfh.com
