William Perry

Long Beach - William "Wild Bill" Ernest Perry, a proud Vietnam veteran, beloved father, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2025, at the Veterans Administration hospice in Long Beach, California, at the age of 77.

Born on August 20, 1947 in Camden, NJ, Bill led a life defined by strength, service, and unwavering devotion to his loved ones. He spent most of his life in Levittown, PA, where he raised his family and built lasting connections. Bill was widowed in 2021 after being married to the love of his life, Terry Perry, for 37 years.

He served his country honorably as a paratrooper in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, proudly serving in both the 82nd Airborne Division and the 101st Airborne Division, where he earned the respect of his peers and a lasting legacy as a man of courage and integrity.

After his military service, Bill dedicated over 30 years to bridge and highway construction, building the infrastructure that connected communities. He was also an avid anti-war activist and a passionate advocate for his fellow veterans. As a Disabled American Veteran (DAV) Service Officer (CSO), he helped countless veterans navigate their VA claims with compassion and determination. Bill was a proud member of several veterans organizations, including Vietnam Veterans Against the War (VVAW), Veterans For Peace (VFP), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA). Known for his wisdom, warmth, and signature sense of humor, he had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and valued.

Bill is survived by his loving daughter, Danielle Lopez, her husband Eric, and their daughters Eden and Ellie, who brought him so much joy. He is also survived by his older daughter, Wendy.

A private virtual Celebration of Life will be held to honor Bill's memory. Friends and loved ones who wish to attend or receive a memorial card are invited to contact the family for details.

Bill's legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and in the values of strength, service, and justice that he carried throughout his life.

As he always signed off-"Be Well, Raise HELL!"