Charles K. Perry

"K4 OZX" became a silent key. Charles K. Perry, 85, of Kingsport, passed away Thursday morning, September 9, 2010 at his home following a brief illness.

Born in Sullivan County where he was a lifelong resident, Charles graduated from Dobyns-Bennett High School. He was a veteran of the U. S. Navy serving in the Pacific Theatre during World War II having received the American Theatre Asiatic Victory and Philippine Medals. Mr. Perry retired from Tennessee Eastman Kodak Division in 1986 with 40 years service.

He was an alumni of National Radio Institute of America, a lifetime member of the American Radio Relay League, the Quarter Century Wireless Association, and the Old Old-Timers Net. He also enjoyed walking and bicycling on the Greenbelt, bird watching, and was an avid enthusiast of NASA. He was proud to have spoken with some of the astronauts.

Mr. Perry was a member of Vermont United Methodist Church, serving on several committees over the years.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Emily Kent Perry in 1987; and son, Patrick Keith Perry, July 20, 2010.

Surviving are two daughters, Brenda Perry Caudill and husband Garland and Ruth Perry; daughter-in-law, Deborah Perry; two granddaughters, Rachel Durham and husband Daniel, Rebecca Rife and husband T. J.; great-granddaughter, Emily Durham; sister, Lou Ann Thomas, all of Kingsport; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Homes, Kingsport.

Services will be conducted at 2:30 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home with Rev. Jared Wood.

Graveside services will follow at Oak Hill Memorial Park with military rites conducted by members of the U. S. Navy and the American Legion Posts #3/265.