Lincoln Perry III

On September 9, 2025, Lincoln Perry III, affectionately known as “Linc,” departed this world at the age of 75. Born at Mother Cabrini hospital in Manhattan, New York, to Lincoln Perry Jr. and Hazel Perry (McCall), he carried the legacy of his name with dignity, humility, and a heart full of compassion. Lincoln was a man of strength, the kind that didn’t need to announce itself. He served his country in the U.S. Army as part of the 103rd Airborne Division during the Vietnam War, bearing both the visible and invisible weight of that chapter with grace. His service was not merely a duty; it was a living testament to his courage, his loyalty, and his unwavering sense of honor. After returning home from the Army, he worked at NBC as one of the first television engineers before devoting himself to the NY/NJ Port Authority Police Department. He served from 1975 to 1989 with steadfast integrity and diligence. His commitment never wavered, he showed up every day, through every season and storm, with resolve that spoke louder than words. In 1989, while on duty, Lincoln was involved in a serious accident that hurled him three blocks from the site of impact. Though the incident marked the end of his professional career, it never dimmed the strength of his spirit. He retired thereafter, carrying with him the same grace and humility that had defined his years of service. After retirement, Lincoln pursued his passion for DJing under the name DJ Lenny P, sharing his love of music through local radio stations. In July of 1968, Lincoln met Deborah, the woman who would become his wife, his partner, and the love of his life. They were married on her birthday, April 18, 1975, at St. Peter Claver Church in Brooklyn, NY. Together, they welcomed their son Craig, and built a life rooted in worshiping the lord, love, resilience, and devotion. In 1997 Lincoln and Deborah relocated to North Carolina first to Mooresville, then Charlotte where they both remained for the rest of their lives. Deborah preceded him in death, but her memory remained ever-present in Lincoln’s heart, a sacred echo in his every day. Lincoln was also preceded in death by his grandfather, Lincoln Perry; grandmother, Zenobia Perry; father, Lincoln Perry Jr.; mother, Hazel Perry (McCall); and sister, Zenobia Perry. Lincoln is survived by his only son, Craig Perry; his beloved grandchildren, Javonne Nathaniel Perry and Jazsmyn (Jaime) Perry; his precious great-granddaughter, Milan Zariyah Perry; daughter-in-love, Fatimha Banks; brother Charles Perry; nephew Andre Perry (Lagatha); great-niece Brooke Aaliyah Perry; and many other aunts, cousins, friends, and associates. Each of them carries a piece of his spirit, his wisdom, his humor, and his unwavering love. And though life’s chapters shifted, Lincoln never let titles define the depth of his love. He embraced his former daughter-in-law, Fatimha, not as an ex-relative, but as the daughter he never had. He affectionately referred to her as his beautiful daughter, a name that reflected the warmth and pride he felt in their bond. Their relationship was one of mutual respect, deep affection, and enduring support. To her, he was never “former,” he was simply Dad, or lovingly, her favorite old man. Lincoln found joy in music, his refuge, his companion through every season. Whether humming along to old favorites or sharing songs with family, music was the language of his soul. It was how he remembered, how he healed, how he loved. Lincoln would want his legacy to be one of kindness and consistency. To remind us that showing up matters. That laughter heals. He would want us to care for one another, and to keep music playing in the background of our lives. Lincoln believed in doing well without fanfare, and in leaving the world a little softer than he found it. May we carry forward that spirit with every act of compassion, every moment of grace, and every memory that calls us to live with purpose. He will be remembered for his dry wit, his wisdom, and the way he made people feel truly seen. His legacy shall live on in the stories told, in the laughter that echoes through generations, and in the love he gave so freely. Rest well, Linc. Your song plays on in every heart you touched, in every life you lifted, and in every melody that reminds us of you.

Lincoln Perry III

September 4, 1950 - September 9, 2025