Leon Wheless Perry

Leon Wheless Perry, 91, of Henderson passed away on August 11, 2007.
A graduate of Edwards Best High School in Franklin County, he enjoyed attending his 50th class reunion and renewing old friendships.
His career began with a country store in Franklin County. He was in the lumber business in North Carolina, Colorado, New Mexico and Wyoming. He was most proud of the 45 saw mills he had in the mountains in Colorado and New Mexico. His real estate ventures were in North Carolina, Florida, Virginia and Louisiana. In 1936, he became one of the earliest pilots and logged in over 10,000 hours. He was a devoted American and a member of the Sons of the Confederacy. He was very active in the Republican Party and served as a delegate to the Republican National Convention in 1972. He was a member of the inaugural Committee for Governor Jim Holshouser and was appointed to the Highway Commission for his district. His motto throughout his life was "Time Waits for No Man" and it became his legacy.
Surviving are his wife of 62 years, Lucille Floyd Perry; daughters, Fran, Margaret, Lee, Mary, Julie; son, Buddy; sister, Gertrude; 13 grandchildren; and seven great- grandchildren.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the home of Lee Garrett, Weybossett, 102 Beavertail Road, Henderson.
A private family graveside service will be held on Thursday at Oakwood Cemetery in Louisburg.
In lieu of flowers, Mr. Perry had requested donations be made to the Carolinas Chapter, Arthritis Foundation, 4530 Park Road, Suite 230, Charlotte, NC 28209.