Ida Perry

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Ida Perry, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, on July 9, 2026, at her cherished home in Tampa, Florida. Born on April 5, 1937, in Tampa, Ida was a lifelong resident and an enduring figure in her community, embodying grace and compassion throughout her 89 years. Ida was the treasured daughter of the late Adam and Ida Lewis, who instilled in her the values of faith, love, and service—principles that Ida carried into every aspect of her life. She was a devoted wife to her husband of 55 years, Melvin Perry, who survives her, along with their son Melvin Jr., four grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to her life. A proud alumna of the University of South Florida, Ida earned a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work, a testament to her lifelong commitment to helping others. She dedicated over 30 years to the Hillsborough Public Schools, where she touched countless lives with her kindness and wisdom. Her colleagues and students alike remember her as a beacon of support and encouragement. Ida's faith was a cornerstone of her life. A devoted and active member of the First United Episcopal Church, she participated in numerous church activities and was known for her unwavering dedication to her spiritual community. The church, where she was both born and raised, will host a service in her honor, celebrating the life of a woman who embodied the teachings of her faith with grace and humility. In her spare time, Ida found tranquility in her garden, tending to her beloved roses and geraniums. Her passion for gardening was not just a hobby but a reflection of her nurturing spirit and her appreciation for the beauty in life's simple pleasures. As we say goodbye to Ida, we celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy of love and generosity. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched, and her spirit will continue to inspire us. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a memorial fund in Ida's name, dedicated to supporting the community causes she held dear. A service to honor and remember Ida Perry's remarkable life will be held at First United Episcopal Church. Her family invites all who knew her to join in this celebration of her life and legacy.