William “Bill” Leon Perry passed from this life Sunday, March 23, 2025, in Purcell, at the age of 78 years 4 months 8 days. Graveside services are scheduled for 3 p.m. Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the Resthaven Cemetery in Oklahoma City, entrusted to the care of Wadley’s Funeral Service.
Bill was born November 15, 1946, in Purcell, Oklahoma, to William George and Wanda Jo (Ozment) Perry.
He spent his early years in California, where Bill pursued his education in Bakersfield and Long Beach. Eventually, he returned to Tulsa, Oklahoma with his father.
Bill embraced family deeply; he married Shirley Wright, with whom he shared the joy of raising two sons. Although their journey together did not last, they shared a bond of friendship that endured beyond their marriage.
Bill’s professional life was characterized by his skillful hands and creative spirit. He began his career in construction, honing his abilities as a carpenter, cabinet builder, and welder. Throughout his career he built everything from power plants to hospitals, ultimately dedicating his talents to the City of Oklahoma City as a skilled tradesman in building management, retiring in 2012. His remarkable aptitude and determination allowed him to repair or build almost anything, and his passion for woodworking and building things continued throughout his life.
Beyond his professional achievements, Bill found satisfaction in nurturing his yard, fishing, hunting and riding dirt bikes. He cherished visits to his son’s farm in Texas. A lover of music, Bill collected records and held a special fondness for country music and dancing. Equally passionate about automobiles, Bill shared a love of both vintage and new Mustangs with his father. They enjoyed restoring cars and attending care shows together.
Most importantly, he was a hard-working man who was always willing to help others and get the job done.
Bill was preceded in death by his father, William Perry; his mother, Wanda Jo Tucker; and the mother of his children, Shirley Perry.
Survivors include his sons, Daniel Perry and Keith Perry; his two grandsons, Samuel Perry and Jakob Stark and wife, Amanda; his three great-grandchildren, Rowan, Wren and Indy; and numerous other relatives and friends.