Perry

James A. “Jim” Perry, of Butler, passed away peacefully Saturday, June 8, 2024.

He was a 1953 graduate of Donora High School where he met his lifelong “sweetheart” and wife of 67 years, JoAnn K. Perry. Jim was a member of All Saints Parish, St. Peter Roman Catholic Church.

He was born on July 21, 1935, to parents Arnold and Amelia Perry.

Jim was an all-around athlete at Donora High School, playing football, basketball and baseball, where his lovely wife-to-be cheered him on.

Jim graduated from Washington & Jefferson College in Washington, Pa., majoring in economics with a minor in philosophy, and was a member of the football team. After college, Jim enlisted in the U.S. Army and served as a first lieutenant in Korea from 1957 to 1959.

Jim had a passion for martial arts and was an avid outdoorsman. Jim earned a fourth degree black belt in Taekwondo and was an instructor in this art to many students for several years. Jim also earned a black belt in Kodenkan Danzan Ryu Jujitsu.

His love for the outdoors included activities such as boating, biking, hiking, white water rafting, caving and rock climbing. Jim won numerous awards for these activities.

Jim loved his children and grandchildren more than anything else. He attended many events they participated in and enjoyed every minute of it.

Surviving are two brothers, Robert (Laura) Perry and Kenneth (Mary Ann) Perry; his children, Marcia (Roger) Stafford, Shan (Monica) Perry and Susan (Brad) Leslie; grandchildren, Kelly Stafford, Chelsea and Zane Perry, and Sarah and David Leslie; along with several nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in passing by his mother, father and beautiful wife.

PERRY — Family and friends of James A. Perry who died Saturday, June 8, 2024, are invited to a Mass of Christian burial, which will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday at St. Peter Roman Catholic Church, 127 Franklin St., Butler. Interment with military honors to follow at Calvary Cemetery in Butler.

Arrangements are being handled by GEIBEL FUNERAL HOME, 201 E. Cunningham St., Butler.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Catholic Charities at 212 Ninth St., Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or please visit www.ccpgh.org.

For more information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.geibelfuneralhome.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.