A house RESOLUTION

 

To remember and celebrate the life of William Rhett Perry Jr., to honor his remarkable commitment to his community and country, and to extend the deepest sympathy to his large and loving family. 

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives were saddened to learn of the passing of William Rhett Perry Jr. on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at the age of eighty-three; and

 

Whereas, a native of Camden, Mr. Perry was born on June 26, 1942. He was the eldest child of the late William R. Perry Sr. and Mozelle Kelly Perry; and

 

Whereas, he attended Kershaw High School and following his graduation in 1960, Mr. Perry entered The Citadel as a proud member of the Class of 1964 (T Company). His military education at The Citadel was interrupted in late 1963, when he volunteered to serve in the United States Army. He finished basic training at Fort Jackson and the Officer's Candidate School, Engineer Branch at Fort Belvoir, earning the rank of Second Lieutenant. He graduated from Command School at Fort Dix and received jungle and special warfare training at several posts; and

 

Whereas, Mr. Perry was deployed to Vietnam in 1967. He was a platoon leader and later a company commander in the Infantry, positioned in the Mekong Delta. He was a decorated veteran of the Tet Offensive in 1968, earning the rank of First Lieutenant. First Lieutenant Perry received various honors such as the Bronze Star, the Silver Star, the Army Commendation, the Gallantry Cross, and the prestigious Soldier's Medal, but what meant the most to him was the Combat Infantryman Badge, which he often wore proudly, along with his Citadel ring. In 2023, he contributed a personal narrative through an oral history interview about his service in the Vietnam War for a collection with the United States Library of Congress; and

 

Whereas, in 1969, First Lieutenant Perry returned to The Citadel to finish his studies as a veteran student. Upon graduating, he enjoyed a career as an investment advisor with E. F. Hutton in Columbia and Wall Street, Prudential Bache in Atlanta and Hilton Head, and Legg Mason in Mt. Pleasant. He was a savvy fiduciary for his many clients and a beloved mentor to many young brokers; and

 

Whereas, upon retirement, First Lieutenant Perry married Lee Davis Todman in 2005 in Edisto, where he spent many summers growing up. They enjoyed more than 20 years together, living at Lake Murray enjoying fishing and boating, until eventually settling in Beaufort. They enjoyed gathering family and friends for celebrations and fun; and

 

Whereas, First Lieutenant Perry was a gifted artist, musician, and athlete. He was a proud member of the "Thirsty Thursday" golf group and enjoyed playing many rounds all over the Southeast and beyond. He loved spending his days watching the University of South Carolina Gamecocks football from his recliner while looking out at the Lowcountry marsh while sipping a large glass of sweet tea. His favorite pastime was spending time with his sons and grandsons while hunting and fishing. He was known by all for his wit, sense of humor, and imaginative storytelling. He was adored by his family and loved by many friends, classmates, and professional associates across South Carolina; and

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are grateful for the life and legacy of William R. Perry Jr. and for the example of sacrifice and kindness he set for all who knew him. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, remember and celebrate the life William Rhett Perry Jr., honor his remarkable commitment to his community and country, and extend the deepest sympathy to his large and loving family.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the family of William R. Perry Jr.

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