On June 20, 2026, God, in His infinite wisdom and perfect timing, saw fit to call our precious son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, Kelli Perry, affectionately known to everyone as "BJ," safely home. Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow and we struggle to understand this tremendous loss, we find comfort in knowing that God saw one of His faithful servants' work here on earth was complete and lovingly called His child home to eternal rest.

BJ was born on May 25, 1982, to a loving mother, Sharean Perry, and father, Benny Perry, Sr. From an early age, BJ possessed an inquisitive spirit and a heart full of wonder. BJ was eager to discover what made the world go around, always curious about life, and determined to follow dreams while encouraging others to pursue theirs as well. BJ believed that with faith, perseverance, and compassion, anything was possible.

BJ had a heart unlike any other. BJ believed in people, often giving them the benefit of the doubt even when others would not. BJ saw the good in everyone and rarely judged a person by their mistakes. BJ kindness knew no limits, and BJ would go the extra mile to make sure those around were okay. Whether someone needed a listening ear, words of encouragement, a helping hand, or simply someone to believe in them, BJ was always there.

BJ's love for music filled every room BJ entered. Gospel music held a special place in his heart, and he found joy in lifting his voice in song and praising God. BJ laughter was contagious, his smile was genuine, and BJ's sense of humor could brighten even the darkest day. BJ had an incredible gift for making people laugh, often leaving family and friends with unforgettable memories and stories that will be cherished forever.

One of BJ's greatest expressions of love was through cooking. BJ found happiness in preparing meals, never caring how many people showed up because he always made enough to feed a multitude. For BJ, food was more than nourishment—it was fellowship, love, and a way of bringing people together. Everyone who sat at his table knew they were welcomed, appreciated, and loved.

To know BJ was to experience warmth, generosity, and joy. BJ carried a light that naturally drew people to him. BJ presence could transform an ordinary gathering into one filled with laughter, conversation, and love. No matter where he went, he brought life to the atmosphere and left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Although his earthly journey has come to an end, BJ's legacy of compassion, generosity, faith, laughter, and unconditional love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. BJ taught us that kindness costs nothing, that laughter heals, and that love should always be given freely.

Gone on before BJ, a loving father, Bennie Perry, Sr., sister, Shakita L. Perry, maternal grandparents, Anna E. Parham (Stillman Sr.), and George L.C. Hall (their pride and joy),  paternal grandparents, Nelson Perry and Nettie Vaden (Lonnie), three uncles, two devoted, Roy G. Parham, Sr., Stillman Parham, Jr., and Garland Perry, and BJ's beautiful aunt, Janet Parham.

BJ, just one of the names leaves to cherish his mother, Sharean Perry; sister, Jasmine Jones Williamson (Christian), and other siblings on the dad's side; five blessed and beautiful nieces and nephew, Takiya, Kamarii, Trinity, Chelci and Heaven; one great niece, Avani Perry-Lackey;  jazzy sweet aunts, Linda Gregory, Deverly Massenburg-Perry and Evelyn Perry; godfather affectionately known as "Papa", Larry Mason; adopted grandparents, Queen and Britain Mason; special aunts in Christ, Mary Parker, Celes Alexander, Vertig McDougald, Norma Parker, and Zoerator Miles; special cousins, Latanya Ampey (Alvin), Erica Thorne (Clint), Eric Parham (Tasha),  Christopher Parham, and Kisha Trisvan-Rose; special friends, Janelle Jordan, Shanelle Carter and Tiffany Harris all who stuck by BJ, through thick and thin and would climb the highest mountain or swim the deepest sea, just to make sure he was alright.

A special shout out to Mother/Minister Rosalee Epps, and a special dear friend, Tammy Lecque. We thank God for each one of you. BJ also leaves a host of step aunts and uncles, step cousins, cousins, other relatives and friends too numerous to name who cherish BJ's precious memories.

BJ leaves behind a loving family who will forever treasure his memory, along with countless relatives, friends, and loved ones whose lives were made better simply because he was a part of them. While we grieve his absence, we rejoice in knowing that he has found perfect peace in the presence of the Lord.

Though our hearts are broken, we thank God for the 44 years He blessed us with BJ. His life was a gift, his love was unconditional, and his memory will forever remain a blessing. Until we meet again, we will carry your laughter in our hearts, your love in our souls, and your legacy in the way we love one another.

"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord." — Matthew 25:23

A memorial service will be held 12 Noon, Tuesday, June 30, 2026, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Larry Mason, eulogist.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/6022715?fl=so&fe=fs