Rickie Lee Perry, age 76, of Flora, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening, February 26, 2025, at his home, with his family at his side.

      Rick was born on January 14, 1949, in Wayne County, Illinois, the son of Richard Everall and Blanche Viola (Scheetz) Perry.  On May 9, 1970, while stationed at Fort Story, Virginia, he married Carolyn Sue Hancock.  Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion, celebrating 54 years of marriage.  Through every chapter of their journey, they remained each other’s greatest source of strength and companionship.

      Rick proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War era from June 1968 to June 1971.  He completed basic training at Fort Polk, Louisiana.  His first duty assignment took him to the Republic of South Korea before he later transferred to Fort Story, Virginia, where he and Carolyn were married.  Rick achieved the rank of Sergeant (E5) and earned several honors, including the Overseas Service Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Korean Defense Service Medal, Expeditionary Service Medal (Korea), National Defense Service Medal, and Good Conduct Medal.

      Rick graduated from Flora High School in 1968, where he played linebacker and offensive guard for the Flora Wolves Football Team, and was part of the team’s exciting undefeated season in 1967.  Rick continued his education at Olney Central College, earning an associate degree.  Over the years, he worked for Caterpillar Inc. in Aurora, served with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and later retired after serving as Flora Police Chief.  He was also an active past member of the Clay County Regulators.

      Rick had a love for woodworking, fishing, hunting, golfing, and playing cards—especially Phase 10 with his family.  Above all, family was at the heart of his life.  He treasured every moment spent with his grandkids and great-grandkids, creating lasting memories.  He also had a soft spot for his beloved pets, Kasey and Annie, who were always by his side. 

      He is survived by his wife: Carolyn Perry of Flora; 2 children: Jason (Samantha) Perry and Staci (Phil) Bute; 2 granddaughters: Hannah Bute and Emma Bute (fiancé Malachi Spitzner); 2 great-grandchildren: Philip Howe and Aelin Howe; siblings: Gary (Debbie) Perry, Harold (Karen) Perry, and Pam (Bill) Stephens; brothers-in-law: Gerald (Martha) Hancock, Ronnie (Danette) Hancock, Jeff (Patricia) Hancock, and Jay (Nancy) Hancock; sisters-in-law: Vera Burris and Jennifer Perry; and his faithful and loving dog, Annie.

      He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother: Jimmie D. Perry; and a beloved dog, Kasey.

      A funeral ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, March 3, 2025, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Interment will follow in Elmwood Cemetery with military funeral honors presented.  A visitation will be held on Sunday evening from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home.  Memorial donations are suggested to Clay County Ministerial Alliance Food Pantry or Fur a Good Paws, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com