Eugene Perry was born on June 13, 1959, in Chicago, Illinois to the late James Roy Perry and Betty Lou Perry. He relocated with his family to Lansing, Michigan in 1972.

He graduated from J.W. Sexton High School where he played football and was a member of the wrestling team. When he completed high school, Eugene served with the Michigan National Guards. He worked for the State of Michigan as a corrections officer and was named Corrections Officer of the Year. Upon retirement he continued pursuing his passion of traveling. Eugene was an avid MSU fan and loved cars, physical fitness, movies, music, sports, and family. He enjoyed spending time with friends and reading the Bible. He was an active member and deacon at Growth and Change Community Church for many years. He also served as an assistant wrestling coach at the local high school and a Red Cross Volunteer during hurricane season in Texas. Eugene loved jokes and he never met a stranger.

He is preceded in death by: grandparents; father, James Roy Perry; sister, Flora; and aunt, Mary Alice Brandon. He is survived by: his loving wife, Phyllis Sue Perry; mother, Betty Lou Perry; sister, Annie Lois Hicks of Lansing; brothers, Donnie Hicks of Austin, Texas, Ricky Perry of Lansing and James (Jean) Perry, Jr. of Alabama; son, Eugene Reshaud Perry; and daughter, Brittni Perry both of Lansing; stepchildren, Sean (Shirley) Butts of Spanaway, Washington, Cheri Butts, and Nakiila Guyton both of Lansing; grandchildren, Xavier Perry, Kyla Perry, Paris Turner, Aubree Perry, and Rozlynn Perry all of Lansing; as well as aunt, Jessie Ree Wilson of Lansing; and great-aunt, Grace Newsome of Decatur, Illinois. He also leaves to cherish his memory a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Services for Mr. Perry are as follows: