Joseph Perry Sr.

Joseph Augustas Perry Sr., 82, of the 600 block of Sawmark Court, passed away on June 2, 2016 at his residence. He was born on September 19, 1933 to the late Leler Perry and Logan Smith in Norfolk County, Virginia. He was predeceased by his wife of 56 years, Elnora Perry.

He was a graduate of Norfolk County High School. He attended Virginia State (Little State) and served in the United States Army with an Honorable Discharge. He graduated from Christopher Newport College with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Services.

Joseph was the first African American Officer hired by the City of Chesapeake. He served for 30 years and 3 ½ months and retired with the rank of First Sergeant. He received the Pioneer Award on March 11, 2004 from the City of Chesapeake.

Joseph is survived by his children, Sheila Perry, Cheryl Fears (Emery), Joseph Perry Jr., Gerald Perry, Charles Perry, Verita Brinkley (Ulysses), Darren Perry (Errika) and Corey Perry; 12 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren, a very special sister, Mildred Perry and a sister-in-law, Catherine Spratley (Reginald) and a host of nieces and nephews are left to cherish his memory.

A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, June 9, 2016, 11:00 a.m. at The Mount, located at 215 Las Gaviotas Blvd., Chesapeake, VA 23322. Burial will follow at Roosevelt Memorial Park. Viewing will held on Wednesday, June 8, 2016 from 12 Noon to 8 pm and a wake will be held on Wednesday, from 6pm to 8 pm at Corprew Funeral Home. The family will leave from 601 Sawmark Court for the funeral procession to the church and receive family and friends after burial services at the church.