In Loving Memory of Lester B. Perry

November 7, 1948 – January 10, 2026

Lester “Bebop” Perry was born on November 7, 1948, in Jackson, Tennessee, to the late Mrs. Bertha Mae (Carroll) Perry and Mr. Willie C. Perry Sr. Despite physical limitations, Lester was considered a “Man’s Man” who lived with a gentle spirit, always managing to pull off an irresistible and quiet charm. Sweet, soft-spoken, and funny in his own unique way, Lester was a beloved son, brother, nephew, uncle, father, and friend whose presence often brought smiles and fond memories to those who knew him.

After high school, Lester moved to South Beloit, Illinois, in the late 1960s to join a few siblings and his father to work at the Chrysler-Dodge assembly plant in Belvidere, Illinois. However, in the 1970s, he returned home to Jackson, where his roots ran deep, and his relationships ran deeper. Always driven by vision and the desire to build something of his own, Lester later set his sights on entrepreneurship opportunities, relocating to Tampa, Florida, in the early 1990s. Tampa became home for many years, and he remained there until 2017, when chronic health challenges led him back to Jackson to be closer to family and familiar comforts.

Lester leaves to cherish his memory his loving daughter, Rosalind (Jason Leroy) Hamilton; four grandchildren: Jaylind Denise Hamilton (30), Jayme Lynn Hamilton (29), Jason Timothy Hamilton Jr. (23), and Julia Marie Hamilton (21); sisters: Willie Mae Perry, Florence Williams, Grace Perry, Eloise Perry, Marilyn Perry, Tina Perry, and Gloria Perry; brothers: Terry Hicks, Robert Perry, and John Perry; and a host of amazing nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and several siblings: Willie Perry Jr., Lizzie Mae (Raymond) Hill, James Perry, Joseph “Bo” Perry, Bobby Joe Perry, Carrie Lee Woods, and Jake C. Perry.

After a long fight with kidney failure, Lester peacefully transitioned to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 5:49 PM.

Lester Perry will be missed and best remembered for the things that brought him joy and us laughter, such as his love of luxury cars, his drive to pursue business, a woman’s touch, and a nice bottle of Hennessy.

Above all, “Bebop” will be remembered as a man with a tender heart and a style all his own, leaving behind fond memories, laughter, and love that will live on through those who knew him best.