William Francis Perry referred to by friends and family as Bill or Billy passed away on June 1st at Lawrence & Memorial Hospital in New London CT. He succumbed to his battle with cancer with dignity. During the course of his illness, he never once complained and always maintained a positive outlook. He was a protector of all, wanting to ensure no one suffered as he was facing his remaining time with friends and family.
His 20+ years as a Journeymen Bridge Painter had him traveling extensively all along the East Coast, establishing new and many long lasting friendships. His last and most memorable assignment was working on America’s first offshore wind farm which services all of Block Island eliminating the over 1 million gallons of diesel fuel used annually by Block Island. He often spoke of the peacefulness waking in the morning to the most beautiful sunrises and in evenings, amazing sunsets. Many Facebook posts captured these moments that he shared with others.
He had 2 main loves in his life, his son Eric and his passion for the “Cowboys”. He shared how he and Eric would talk every single day for 2+ hours exchanging advice about work and everyday events occurring in their lives. Their bond as father/son also extended beyond into truly best friends. His passion for the Cowboys generated a friendly bantering exchange every football season, a banter that will be sorely missed by all.
Billy was born to William and Josephine Perry on April 5, 1959 in New London CT. Surviving are his parents, William and Josephine Perry; his son Eric Perry (Danielle Laffargue & grandson Ayden Perry) of Manchester, New Hampshire; his sisters Terry Perry (Mark Burdick) of Epping, New Hampshire; Alice & Boris Braylyan of Southington; Patricia Harris (Mark) of Groton; brother Michael Perry of North Stonington; nieces Tiffaney Burdick (Eric Eisenstat) of South Berwick, Maine; Michelle Perry of Tacoma, Washington; Becky Perry of Citrus Springs, Florida; nephews Mark Burdick of Epping, New Hampshire; Matthew Perry (Alison) of Floral City, Florida. He was predeceased by & has now joined his sister Penny Perry.
He touched the hearts of many and will be forever missed, a son, a brother, a father, a grandfather, an uncle and a dear friend.
We would also like to take this opportunity to thank the many nurses and staff from the 6th floor at L&M Hospital as well as The Center for Hospice Care for their support during Billy’s transition.
His wonderful spirit, joy, and talents will be celebrated at a memorial service for friends and family at 1 pm on Friday June 9, 2017 at Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Mystic.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to The M.O.R.G.AN. Project, 4241 N Highway 1 Melbourne, FL 32935. http://themorganproject.org/how-you-can-help