Clarence Samuel Perry

Clarence was an extremely talented musician who began his music career in the late 50’s, spreading dance floor joy for more than 40 years. He was especially known for his signature moves on stage, from his talents of Bo Didley, playing the guitar with his teeth and behind his back, to his closing kick-step. His music ventures took him to Nashville in the 1970s where he and Mary Lou opened the first rock and roll nightclubs, the Backstage and the Rollercoaster. From sharing guitar skills with Roy Clark, to touring with Roy Orbison, and living next door to Johnny Cash, he had a full and illustrious musical career.

After Nashville, Clarence moved to Baytown, Texas, where he retired from the stage and opened Perry’s Appliance. Fourteen years into retirement, he picked up the guitar once again and headlined the The Mercy Blues Band at his own club, Mustang Sallys, with the desire to perform with his daughter, Stacy before officially retiring from the stage. He would still pick up a guitar and start entertaining for family and friends any chance he could.

The guitar almost brought him as much happiness as his family did. Clarence loved his family fiercely. He loved to spend time hunting and fishing and sharing his life experiences. He always enjoyed spending time with friends and family and that time was especially meaningful to him these last few years. Clarence remained close to God throughout his life; he understood that by grace, he had been saved through faith; and this not of yourselves, it was the gift of God.

He is survived by his wife Mary Lou of 57 years; his children, Stacy Smith, Steve Perry and Laura Perry; Stepchildren Laura (Tommy) Scott, Patrick and Shane Waits; Grandchildren Jamie (Keith) Helmly, Hunter Smith, Savannah (Shawn) Stewart, Amber Waits, Logan Johnson, Zachary and Jacob Scott, Lacey and Cooper; Great-grandchildren Venture Smith; Peyton & Cooper Helmly; Abigail, Emily, Allison Gothard; Delainey Rocha; Colton, Cayleigh, Caiden, Skylyr, Wyatt & MaryFaye Stewart and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Avie Perry; his five brothers, Charles Jr., Lloyd, Jamie, Luman, and Kenny Perry; three half-brothers, Willard, Ross and Fred Williamson; his three sisters Ava Lillian, Bernice and Annie Grace and his daughter; Ann Marie Johnson.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Perry family may be shared at www.earthmanbaytown.com