John Herick Perry

John Herick Perry August 25, 1957 - October 30, 2016 John was born in St Augustine FL, August 25th, 1957. Early on, It was evident, that he had a zest for life. He never met a stranger, loved a good time and had an infectious laugh. He was unique in his perception of all that surrounded him. John had many passions, firstly, it was surfing and fishing, He loved beach. Then his love for music began to appear. His Father, the late "Floyd Perry" in his youth was an accomplished country fiddle player. The home was often filled with groups of musicians. It was here that he developed his first interest in the guitar. In high school, during the 70's, the first band was "Future King" the "Leo Dansby Band, "Alligator Cowboys". also , Larry Camblins' band," Ramblin Camblin Hambone and Grease",70's & 80's. Traveling with Larry, took him all over the United States, opening shows for top performers. Johns' journey took many twists and turns. The music profession, wreaked havoc regarding his personal life. His life style would become too overwhelming for those he loved. He had a sweet personality, a song comes to mind that ,Willie Nelson recorded called ," All the Girls I've Loved". In 2001/02, John recorded a copy-written version of his songs on a CD entitled, "Chains of Love". Songs "Dreams Die Hard," I can Hear Your Name", Carolina Wind," Live Them Blues, and "Long Legged Heart Attack", developing his own style of the "Blues".. In 2002, tragedy struck! Because of cancer, he lost his ability to sing……… Johns' world as he knew it, was gone, forever……he lost it all;;….His pain was un-explainable . I, as a historian of these events watched him during these moments and shared something far too painful to retrieve, even today.. Yes, He did survive…..with a lots of love from friends and loved ones. Once again his path took another major turn…When most of us would have given up, not "He". Slowly he began to emerge from this deep painful reality, with acceptance. It did not matter the circumstances, what ,when or where, he embraced all who touched his life. He began writing a manuscript ,"Backwater Lullaby"2006, with completion in 2014. John returned to St Augustine, his home, last year in March, 2015…During which time, with the support of his Brother, "Rocky Lingold," and their band , "Mohatchee" he picked up the guitar once again. He loved to play the guitar and so enjoyed the love of seeing all of his old friends. No longer could his voice soar loud and clear, for he had so much to say…….Now with his hands on the guitar strings, he made such incredible music……. His last performances were with the band. "Dark Cowboys". For the past year they(several local bands) including "Dark Cowboys," performed many charitable events, to raise funds helping those in need…… John Perry was a kind soul, had a heart big as his smile. He was alway a student of life, a unique individual with many talents. He did not dwell on the negative. He was a joyful man who loved to laugh…finding humor in the oddest situations. John was simply himself…Kind in his nature and loved all. Yes, he made unconventional choices at times, and those who loved him couldn't understand why? ….. I , as his mother will always miss him…it has been such a comfort to have him nearby. I can say for his brother, Charles and I, during the past year, we have enjoyed our times together. However brief, for this, I shall always be eternally grateful . He is survived by his mother, Marsha Perry Genaro; brothers, Charles Floyd Perry, Rocky Lamar Lingold, (Sally) of St. Augustine; sisters, Lorie Grace Squeglia (Rich), Rebecca Ann Townsend (Jim); niece, Makaela of Deland, Fl.,; nephew, Devon Walters of Tampa, Fl. He is also survived by Diane E. Waskowich and family, the late Betty Kidd and daughter, Shelia Hartley (Charlie) and family of St. Augustine, Fl.; and Lisa Walsh Perry of St. Augustine. Memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 10, 2016 at St. Johns Family Funeral Home with Rev. Steve Brown officiating.