Tributes paid as community champion Fred Perry dies at 87
Tributes have been paid to honorary alderman and community champion Fred Perry MBE, who has died aged 87.
The former Sandwell councillor, who had been ill for some time, died on Monday.
He managed to celebrate his 62nd wedding anniversary with his wife Irene, just days before he died. He also leaves daughters Susan and Lisa, three grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Mr Perry of Horton Street, Tipton served as Labour ward member for Great Bridge on Sandwell Council for more than 15 years and was presented with the honorary title of alderman in 2008. He was awarded an MBE in the 2010 New Year's Honours list for his work to improve the lives of people in Tipton. Sandwell Council took the decision to lower its flag to half mast yesterday in his honour.
Even when he retired from the council Mr Perry played an active part in the community. He was known for his work with the Tipton branch of the Royal British Legion and had been both secretary and chairman of the branch.
Good friend Councillor Peter Allen said he took a leading role in the annual poppy appeal. He said: "He did a great deal for the Poppy Appeal, and could always be found in the Asda in Great Bridge selling poppies. He was also always out on Great Bridge High Street, even when he was quite ill he would be out chatting to people and supporting the community. He will be very sadly missed."
Mr Perry was a former Hill Top School pupil and served in Burma with the British Army's Fifth Indian Division between 1943-1945. He used to manage the West Bromwich Strollers team and spent his working life at Phoenix Steel Tube in the town. Mr Perry's funeral will be held on September 26 at 4pm at Sandwell Valley Crematorium.
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