Mr. Charles Brooks Perry

Beloved husband of Brendolyn, loving father of Cynthia Marie, Richard Charles (Vanetta) and Nicholas Edward (Raven) Perry. Funeral services Wednesday, May 31st, 11AM at Olivet Institutional Baptist Church, 8712 Quincy Ave. where family will receive friends at 10AM. Viewing Sunday 11 AM-3 PM, May 28th and Tuesday, May 30th, 9 AM-6:30 PM at the E. F. Boyd & Son Funeral Home, 2165 E. 89th St. CHARLES BROOKS PERRY December 11, 1934 – May 20, 2017 A Life of Service, Well-lived! Charles Brooks Perry was born on December 11, 1934, to Samuel Vines Perry and Willette Perry (nee Strode), in Cleveland, Ohio. After a year-long illness, he went home to be with his Lord and Savior passing peacefully as he slept, at the Hospice of the Western Reserve, surrounded by loved ones, on May 20, 2017. THE BEGINNINGS Accepting Christ at the young age of 9, Charles joined Antioch Baptist Church under the able leadership of Pastor Wade H. McKinney. He later became a member of Lee Road Baptist Church, where he stayed for several years. He found his ultimate church home at The Olivet Institutional Baptist Church where he served graciously for more than 40 years. Charles’ outstanding tenor voice was heard on a regular basis in the Male Chorus and the Voices of Olivet. Charles attended Cleveland Public Schools, graduating from John Hay High School in 1953. He also attended Fenn College (now Cleveland State University), received a certificate from Garfield Senior College and completed various professional development courses in the insurance industry. He served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1957, including 18 months in the Korean Conflict. While in the service, Charles’ vocal and musical talent became apparent to his superiors and he was asked to audition for, and was given a place in the choir with the Department of the Army, Entertainment Division. This prestigious assignment allowed him to tour the world while entertaining his fellow soldiers where ever they were stationed. He was honorably discharged in 1961. EARLY CAREER His early career included positions in the office of Clerk of the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court as well as the office of the Clerk of Cleveland Municipal Court. Charles was a model employee, always giving 100% to anything he undertook. A SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR In 1961, Charles co-founded the Pinkney-Perry Insurance Agency, with his long-time friend and colleague the late Arnold R. Pinkney. The Pinkney-Perry organization became a beacon in Cleveland’s business community for more than 5 decades. During this time, the agency became one of the most respected minority-owned businesses and insurance agencies in the country. A SERVANT LEADER Throughout his life, Charles embraced every opportunity to serve others in a leadership role. In the 1980s, he served as President of the Olivet Institutional Baptist Church Credit Union and oversaw its merger with the Antioch Credit Union. Additionally, Charles served as a trustee for a number of years, he was subsequently elected Board Chairman, a tribute to his on-going commitment and leadership. Most notably, Charles was appointed to the Selective Service Board (to represent the 21st Congressional District), by then President Lyndon B. Johnson. He served on this Board until the Draft Board was eliminated. Charles was also appointed Foreman of the Special Grand Jury over the Model Cities Investigation by the late Judge Lloyd O. Brown, where he served with distinction. For 11 years, he served as the local and national chairman of the Minority Business Enterprise Input Committee (MBEIC) of the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC). In this role, he and his committee shaped and impacted corporate and minority business policies and procedures on a national scale. Many of his innovative policies that were adopted are still in place today. Additionally, in 1975 Charles co-founded the Handicapper’s Golf Club with fellow golfers Linwood Smith, Roscoe Rush and Joe Booker (deceased). Charles was also a Prince Hall Mason, affiliated with the William T. Boyd Masonic Lodge. A MENTOR TO SO MANY Charles B. Perry epitomized the essence of a successful business man. He continually shared his business acumen with a wide range of business owners across the country. He is responsible, in part, for the success of numerous business professionals. He helped them avoid many of the same type of setbacks that he himself experienced in business; often times standing proudly beside them, and many times in front of them, when needed. He was an amazing political strategist and colleague in the struggle, often telling his mentees: “don’t be bitter, be better.” A DEDICATED FAMILY MAN Charles, the youngest of four brothers, is preceded in death by the three brothers Herbert, Samuel, and William Perry; as well as his first wife Sylvia Lee Perry. Charles was married to Sylvia Lee (nee Edwards) Perry for 51 years, and was a devoted father to his three children: Cynthia Marie, Richard Charles (Vanetta), and Nicholas Edward (Raven). All their lives his children spoke fondly of and respected his counsel, love, dedication and values. As a Grandfather, he was affectionately known as “Papa”. He was both Superman and Yoda to his grandsons: Dalton Brooks, Dylan Alexander and Drake Christian; and to his granddaughters: Natalie Sylil, Mayah Angelia, Lailah Alyse and Norah Elizabeth. He was and will always be their hero and champion. Later in his life he was blessed to meet Brendolyn Brister. They were then married on June 1, 2013. Since day one, Charles was a devoted husband, friend and companion. He and Brendolyn were inseparable, doing everything together. They served our almighty God together and were dedicated to their Church. They were one, single unit. She remained his primary caregiver and loving companion until his passing. A NEW BEGINNING Charles Brooks Perry always put his family, his Church and his friends ahead of everything in his life. His quick wit and sense of humor, broad smile, brilliance, dignity, compassion and commitment to others will be sorely missed by all who knew him, loved him and those whose lives he touched. May he rest at peace in God’s loving embrace.

Mr. Charles Brooks Perry

December 11, 1934 - May 20, 2017