Joseph McGarity Perry, 22 September 1936 – 5 April 2026

Joe was born in his Grandparents' house in Marietta, Georgia. After completing secondary school and ROTC training in Atlanta, he served in the Army Reserves. In 1958 he completed a bachelor’s degree in German Language and Literature at Emory University. He continued on to Georgia State University, where he completed an MBA in 1961. From Georgia State, he went on to Northwestern University where he completed a Master of Arts degree in Economics in 1964, and his Ph. D. degree in Economics in 1966.

He joined the Economics faculty at the University of Florida, in Gainesville, first as Assistant Professor of Economics, and then as Coordinator of Undergraduate Studies in Economics. He served at the University of Florida until 1971 when he joined the newly organized University of North Florida in Jacksonville as Associate Professor of Economics and Chair of the Department of Economics and Geography. He chaired the Department of Economics and Geography at UNF on two separate occasions for a total of 25 years and, at one time or another, directed three of the university’s teaching and research centers. He retired from active teaching at UNF in May, 2002.

In addition to teaching, Joe was a consultant to over 100 regional and national law firms in matters involving personal injury, wrongful death, bankruptcy, business firm valuation, marriage dissolution, and Workers' Compensation. His expertise helped many people through crises.

During retirement he enjoyed photography, reading, and genealogy. Every possible weekend was spent in Lake Butler, Florida at the family farm.

Joe is predeceased by his parents, Rubye McGarity Perry and William Herschal Perry; brother, Charles Perry; and granddaughter, Anna Overton.

Joe is survived by his wife, Ethelia Crews Perry; daughters, Linda Perry (Cameron Davidson) and Laura Perry (Ray Mathis); his granddaughter, Heather Mathis; brothers, Earl and Dan; and sisters, Rubye Ann Adkisson and Connie Campbell.

Joe will be remembered as a kind and loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, son, and friend. He taught us so much.

A private ceremony will be held for family members. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Haven Hospice of Florida.