Gregory Alexander Perry

In Loving Memory of Reverend Gregory Alexander Perry
With profound sadness, we announce the sudden passing of Reverend Gregory Alexander Perry, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and a dedicated shepherd to his flock at the Greenville Congregational Church. A pillar in his community and beyond, he passed away doing what he cherished, serving the Lord and the people around him.
Born in Norwalk, Connecticut, and finding his early spiritual roots at Norwalk's Grace Baptist Church, Reverend Perry pursued his theological education at Yale Divinity School earning two master's degrees. His commitment to spiritual guidance and community leadership was evident throughout his life.
Professionally, he served as chaplain at the Norwich Hospital until its closure, and then as the EAP coordinator at the Connecticut Valley Hospital in Middletown. His passion for community service extended to his significant involvement in the NAACP and countless other organizations, where he tirelessly worked towards social justice and upliftment.
His legacy includes his commitment to social justice, reflected in his role as the former President of the Norwich Area Clergy Association, where he organized public vigils and community response events to address major issues such as gun violence. Reverend Perry was also deeply involved in the NAACP, advocating for equality and peace, and was integral in organizing events like the annual Martin Luther King Birthday march and service program.
His enthusiasm for electronics and computers was profound, transcending mere interest to become a cornerstone of his service to others. He was always eager to share his knowledge, helping people understand and embrace the ever-evolving world of technology. An innovator and educator, he founded Building Computers for Humanity, ensuring that underprivileged students could access technology for both learning and play.
His love for drumming was not just a hobby but a form of joyful expression and connection. This passion lives on through his grandsons Isaac and Noam, who continue to carry the rhythm of their grandfather's legacy in their band "Potato Soup".
Reverend Perry's love for life was also evident in his passion for riding his Honda Goldwing, enjoying the camaraderie and freedom of the open road with his motorcycle friends. He lived his life as a testament to kindness, always willing to lend a helping hand, a meal, or a listening ear to those around him.
He leaves behind his beloved wife Jayne Perry, his children Janine (Perry) Guillet and her husband Ray, their children Isaac, Noam, Elia, and Sebastian; son Gregory Perry and his wife Beth (Gagnon), their children Lucian and Odessa; and his daughter Jade Perry and her husband Joel Webster, and their children Via, Nathaniel, and Sukey; his brother William Perry, sister Gwen Perry, nephew Darrell Payne, and nieces Stephanie Payne and Elisha Walker-Thomas. He was predeceased by his sister Gail Walker and brother George "Butch" Perry.
Reverend Perry's life was a beacon of hope and peace, a journey of tireless service and profound empathy. His sudden departure leaves us with an enduring inspiration to continue his legacy of service, unity, and love.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor can be made to "Computers for Humanity" and the Greenville Congregational Church.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 13, at the Jacqueline Owens Auditorium at Kelly Middle School, 25 Mahan Drive, Norwich, CT. The service will begin at 2pm with visitation beginning at 1pm. This will be an opportunity for the community that he loved and served to celebrate his remarkable life and the indelible mark he left on this world.
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God." - Matthew 5:9