Edward Moore Perry

On Wednesday, October 15, 2025, God in His infinite wisdom dispatched His angel of mercy to peacefully escort Edward Moore Perry to his eternal rest. He was born to loving parents, Walter Lee Perry, Jr. and Alice Moore Perry, on January 1, 1952. As a new year baby, he always, always proudly proclaimed, "The whole world celebrates my birthday!" The youngest of five, "Eggoo" was also welcomed into the family by older siblings, William "Skippy", Walter III "Poocum", Carolyn "Ettywet", and Horace "Mackmoosey". Their father lovingly gave each of his children a nickname. Having preceded him in death, his parents and siblings undoubtedly welcomed him to heaven with open arms!
At an early age, Edd was baptized and became a member of Third Baptist Church in Portsmouth, Virginia under the the pastorate of Dr. C. H. Jordan. Sometimes he also attended services at First Baptist West Norfolk where his parents served as deacon and deaconess. He shared fond memories of being a member of the Boy Scout Troop at Third Baptist. Edd also had a long standing relationship with New St. Thomas Baptist Church, donating a number of resources throughout the years, including food, time, financial contributions and lawn care services. During one of the most uncertain times in world history, Edward made the decision to officially become a member in July of 2021 under the pastorate of his "main man", Rev. Adrian B. Wyrick, II.
Edward attended Portsmouth Public Schools and graduated from the illustrious I.C. Norcom High School. Prior to his time as a Greyhound, he was known for playing football and basketball at the former Woodrow Wilson High School. Due to his young age of 17, his parents gave him permission to volunteer for the United States Army, during the Vietnam War era. Following his tour of duty, he continued his education at Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia.
Edd's career experiences included Ford Motor Company and Tidewater Community College. While living in California, he briefly worked as a counselor for the Veterans Administration. He also worked security where Motown Records was housed. There he met and befriended numerous celebrities. Upon returning to Virginia, he again served his country through employment with the United States Postal Service. For many years, he walked an 11 mile route in all kinds of weather. He later secured a "mounted route" until retirement.
On June 6, 1981, he married his "Sugar Pie," Essie. Also known as his "First Lady," Essie and Edd have known each other since the sandbox at Mrs. Bond's Kindergarten. He liked to say, "I didn't know what a wife was, but I knew I wanted her to be mine." Their union was blessed with two daughters: Tanya Charisse and Rachel Nicole.
Edward found joy in fishing, building wood work, reading, writing, gardening, and listening to many genres of music. His personal heroes were Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Muhammad Ali, who he got to meet after the inauguration of Governor Douglas Wilder. Edd's home was always open, his table always full, and his heart generous to all! The name Edward means "guard" and "protector," which describes him perfectly.
Edd was one of the best: willing to give his time and wisdom, and always ready for a spirited debate. The world lost a truly great man - our beloved husband, father, uncle, cousin, mentor, and friend.
To cherish his legacy, he leaves his wife, Essie Perry; two daughters, Tanya Perry and Rachel Perry; his godmother, Deacon Lillian Louise Hasty; a brother-in-law, Clarence Vinson (Mary); a sister-in-law, Jacqueline Caton; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. Well done thou good and faithful servant!