Billy Jay "Bill" Perry

Billy "Bill" Jay Perry
July 16, 1943 – November 8, 2025

Billy "Bill" Jay Perry passed away peacefully at home in The Villages, Florida, surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born on July 16, 1943, in Littlefield, Texas, to parents John L. and Polly Perry.

Bill was married to the love of his life, Joann, for 65 years. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and family. He is preceded in death by his parents and survived by his devoted wife, Joann; his sister and brother-in-law, Kay and Dennis Moore; his children Dr. Richard Jay Perry and wife Jenn, Kathryn J. Volkman and husband John; his grandchildren Bradley Jay Corbin and wife Chelsea, Miles J. Perry and wife Kacy, Bryce Thompson and husband Josh, Jacob Perry and wife Kelsie, and Chandler Mueller; and his great-grandchildren Ashlyn, Kyleigh Jayde, Lilah, and Cash Corbin, Jett, Remi, and Scottie Jayde Thompson, Bennett Perry, and Corine J. Perry. Bill is also survived by many Nieces and Nephews.

Bill's career was marked by pride and purpose. He worked for General Dynamics-later Lockheed Martin-where he helped build some of the most advanced fighter jets in aviation history, including the F-111 Aardvark, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and the F-22 Raptor. His dedication and leadership earned him the nickname "Big Raptor" during his time as Director of the F-22 program, a title that reflected both his commanding presence and deep passion for his work.

Outside of his career, Bill's true joy was found in the things he loved most: Joann, his family, golf, airplanes, the stock market, and cooking. He approached life with grit, humor, and unwavering standards. Though known for his toughness, Bill never expected more from anyone else than he demanded from himself.

Bill was a man of strong convictions and memorable sayings, two of which will live on in the hearts of those who knew him best: "Sometimes your best ain't worth a damn." "Burning daylight."

Bill Perry leaves behind a legacy of strength, love, and integrity-a man whose life was defined by hard work, devotion, and deep pride in all he built, both in the skies and at home. Inurnment will be at Greenwood Memorial Park, Fort Worth, TX on November 29, 2025. Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449. Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com.