Dennis Joe Perry
April 3, 1951 ~ May 22, 2026
He was a man who answered to many names. To the world, he was Dennis. To his family, he was our beloved Sammy. And to so many friends, he was simply “Smiley” — a name that told you everything you needed to know about his outgoing spirit, sharp mind, and courageous heart.
Dennis was a man of immense talent and drive. He built and ran a thriving business, pouring his hard work into everything he did. But when the workday was over, his true passions came alive.
He was a gifted musician, a man who could make a guitar speak and a song touch your soul, no matter the genre. He loved all kinds of music, and through his singing and playing, he gave us the soundtrack to so many of our happiest memories.
He was also a man who loved a good game and a little friendly competition. If you ever saw him around a pool table, you knew you were watching a player who rarely missed his mark. And if you sat across from him at a poker table, you quickly learned he was a pretty darn good player who kept everyone on their toes.
But if you asked him what his greatest achievement was, it wouldn’t have been the business, the music, or the winning hands. It was his family.
For 35 wonderful years, I had the absolute privilege of being his wife. To me, and to everyone who truly knew him, he was simply the best of the best. He loved fiercely, protected deeply, and lived life to the fullest.
He leaves behind a beautiful and lasting legacy in our children. He was so incredibly proud of his sons, Joey and his wife Khalilah, and Shane and his wife Jennifer. He cherished his daughters, Amber and her husband Cole, and Sorena and her husband Matt, along with his eight grandchildren and one great-grandson. He also leaves behind to cherish his memory, his sister and brother-in-law, Royce Ann and Andy Evans. The love he poured into our family will continue to guide us and live through us every single day.
Dennis. Sammy. Smiley.
You played a beautiful song with your life, and though the music has quieted here on Earth, the melody will live in our hearts forever.
We love you. We miss you. And we will honor you by keeping your smile alive.
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
You will forever be in my heart. Thank you for loving me as your own. I hope you’re celebrating in Heaven, singing and picking all your favorite songs, and catching the biggest fish.
Love you always