Christopher R Perry

Christopher Ryan Perry of North Philadelphia, PA, was called home on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at the age of 46 years. He was born on June 6, 1978, in Philadelphia, PA. He was the son of the late Raynetta Perry. Chris was married to Shamalee, with whom he shared 25 years, 4.5 years of them being married.

In 1987, Chris’ mom introduced him to swimming so he would be safe in the water. He became a member of the Philadelphia Department of Recreation (PDR) which he excelled in the sport. This is where he became friends with Dupree, Doug, Tyree, Eric, Chris, Kyle, Charles, Jared, Sylvester, Rosie, Angie, Brandyn, Brielle, Bianca, Anthony, Kevin Hart, and many more PDR alumni. Chris graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School in 1997, where he joined the swim team for all 4 years and became friends with Calvin Gamble. Chris loved the water. He was a lifeguard during the summertime. And he drove school buses for over 25 years for the Philadelphia School District.

Chris especially enjoyed traveling with his family and friends to Disney World, to the Caribbean Islands, and places like Las Vegas where he would rent luxury cars just to ride down the strip. He loved riding his motorcycle around Philly and even in Myrtle Beach for Bike Week with his homies. Deep sea fishing, shooting pool, walking through haunted houses, and shooting guns at the gun range. He loved being around family. Going to family reunions, cookouts, and any gathering that would bring family & friends together. Everyone loved him, and he never disrespected anyone. He loved having great conversations. He was very outgoing and adventurous. While visiting Jamaica, he jumped off the highest cliff at Rick’s Cafe during his time of battling cancer. He never let his cancer stop him from living his life. Chris was a fighter who faced his challenge with cancer with the same strength, resilience, and optimism that have always defined his life.

Chris was known as the Mayor of his neighborhood block of North 30 Street which he loved dearly.

He loved barbecuing and hanging out on his block. Every 4 of July Chris would have the block glowing from his legendary firework shows.

Chris is survived by his wife, Shamalee, and her children, Dajon, Brandon, Mylik, Mikal, and Shay, whom he affectionately raised as his own. He leaves behind his Aunt Ruvena Meadows (Pastor Henry), Christine Wilson, Teresa Hatch (Franklin), Sharon Bell, and Sherlinn Watson (Pastor Graylin). Chris had many good and faithful friends who were like brothers: Dupree Quarles, Tarik Howell, Calvin Gamble, Demetrius Ross, Doug Harris, Curt Evans, and many others. Chris is also survived by his grandchildren and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mrs. Shamalee Perry to help cover expenses. Checks may be made payable to Shamalee Perry and given at the church. If you need to mail your card, mail it to Shamalee Perry C/O Gwen Wilson, 31 Island Lane, Clayton, DE 19938. If you do wish to send flowers, send them to the Deliverance Evangelistic Church, 2001 W Lehigh Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19132.

  A celebration of life service will be held on Thursday, May 29, 2025. The public viewing will be held from 9:00 am to 11:00 am with a service to start at 11:00 am at Deliverance Evangelistic Church 2001 W. Lehigh Avenue Philadelphia, PA.19132. The interment following the service will be held at Greenmount Cemetery 4301 N. Front Street Philadelphia, PA. 19140. Please remember the family in your prayers.