Curtis Manuel Perry, 83, passed away peacefully in his home on June 25th, 2024. Curtis was born on October 3rd, 1940 to his loving parents, Mary and Manuel Perry.

Curtis grew up in New Bedford and was fiercely proud of his city. From an early age he excelled in all sports, and at New Bedford High School he starred in both football and track. Curtis developed several friendships with his teammates who would continue to be his closest allies throughout his life, including Richard Santos, the Honorable Armand Fernandes (Associate Justice, Massachusetts Trial Court, Ret.) and the Honorable Ernest Torres (US District Court, Ret.) Curtis earned an athletic scholarship to Northeastern University where he earned his Bachelor's Degree. He also earned a Masters Degree from the University of Mexico, and attended Brown University, working towards a post-graduate degree in urban studies. Curtis' athletic legacy was cemented in his later years with inductions to both the New Bedford High School and Northeastern University Football Halls of Fame.

Curtis also excelled in his work, building off his father's plumbing business and pivoting to real estate. He took great pride in driving through New Bedford and showing his daughters the many properties he had a hand in developing.

While Curtis worked hard, he also enjoyed his success. He loved to travel and visited many countries throughout his life including Portugal, Japan, and Colombia where he met his former wife, Isabel who remained his best friend until the end. He and Isabel raised their two daughters, Solange and Cassandra, in a home full of warmth-sometimes heat!-but always love. Curtis instilled in his daughters a love of animals, a drive to work hard, and above all gratitude for the life they had which he and Isabel forged together from humble beginnings.

Curtis was known for his off-color jokes, his public speaking ability, and his...quirkiness. He was a man of contradictions-frugal and yet generous, passionate yet calm, introverted yet able to work a room unlike anyone else. He will be missed.

Curtis is survived by his former wife Isabel Perry, his daughters Solange and Cassandra Perry, his grandson and namesake Gavin Curtis Leander, and his goddaughter Jessica Santos.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, July 13th from 1:00-5:00 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home For Funerals, 50 County Road, Mattapoisett, MA. Curtis' remains will be spread on Marco Island, Florida where he owned a home and spent many happy years vacationing with his family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a tax-deductible donation to Friends of New Bedford Whaling Athletics, INC or to any charity of your choosing.