Tracy Perry

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Tracy Terrell Perry, age 55, a dedicated wife, mother, aunt, loving sister, and friend, departed this life on Friday, January 2, 2026, in Raleigh, North Carolina, surrounded by loved ones. Tracy was a woman of great strength and compassion, known for her reserved nature, distinguished military service, and her unwavering devotion to her husband, her son, and her extended family.

Early Life & Education

Born on October 9, 1970, at Parkland Hospital in Dallas, Texas, Tracy was the beloved daughter of the late Joyce Evelyn Williams and Dwight Eric Williams. She was raised in the Oak Cliff area of Dallas and eventually moved to Mesquite where she finished her secondary education and was a proud graduate of West Mesquite High School. While there, Tracy excelled in athletics and was a star basketball player as well as an exemplary student. Following high school, she made the life-changing decision to serve her country in the United States Navy.

Throughout her life, Tracy was deeply dedicated to excellence. This commitment was clearly demonstrated when she earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Trident University International while managing the demands of her military career.

Military Service

Tracy served with great honor in the United States Navy for 26 years. Over her decades of service, she achieved the prestigious rank of Culinary Specialist Senior Chief (CSCS), a testament to her leadership and dedication.

Senior Chief Perry was a highly decorated Sailor whose commitment to excellence earned her the deep respect of her peers and superiors alike. Her distinguished awards include:

Meritorious Service Medal

Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal (2 awards)

Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal (5 awards)

Meritorious Unit Commendation

Navy "E" Ribbon (5 awards)

Good Conduct Medal (9 awards)

National Defense Service Medal (2 awards)

Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal

Southwest Asia Service Medal

Global War on Terrorism Service Medal

Civilian Life & Passions

After retiring from the Navy, Tracy continued her life of service as a devoted Student Advocate and Dorm Mother at Shaw University in Raleigh. Her dedication to shaping the lives of young scholars was unmatched; she served not only as a mentor but as a steadfast guardian for the students in her care, ensuring they had the support and guidance needed to thrive.

In her personal life, Tracy was quiet and reserved but also very witty. She was a source of strength for her family and a cornerstone for her brothers and sisters. She was a vibrant personality who found joy in connecting with others through TikTok and participating in community events.

Family

Tracy is survived by her devoted husband, Wardell Perry, and her son, Archie Lee Sumpter III. She leaves to cherish her memory her siblings: Earl Greer, Lisa Taylor (Reinaldo), Charles McCoy, Jr. (Virginia), Cedric McCoy, Dwight Eric Williams Jr., Sonya Williams, Dannie Williams-Hopson (Kenneth), and Brandon Williams.

She is also survived by her niece, Cristal McCoy, to whom she was like a mother, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and a host of other relatives and dear friends. Tracy was preceded in death by her parents, Joyce Evelyn Williams and Dwight Eric Williams; her grandmothers, Carolyn Humphrey and Christine Crow Williams; grandfathers, Lonzo Greer, Charles Williams, and James “Sunny Boy” Williams; her sister, Karen McCoy Coit; and her nephew, Torrie Deon McCoy.

Services

Memorial Service:  2:00 PM, Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Lea Funeral Home Chapel, 2500 Poole Road, Raleigh, NC.

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