William "Perry" Cranford

Unbeknownst to us, but perfectly planned by God, William “Perry” Cranford, age 82, of Cherryville, quietly took the hand of Jesus on May 31, 2025. Perry was born on August 18, 1942, in Davidson County, to the late Huey and Wilma Bernice Woodle Cranford.

Perry was a Vietnam Veteran of the United States Navy and was deployed aboard the aircraft carrier USS Coral Sea (CV-43). He was previously employed with Carolina Freight Company, and as a sales supervisor with Caterpillar Manufacturing. In his earlier years, Perry enjoyed hiking and trips to the beach. He also enjoyed antiquing and golf. Perry liked poetry, especially Carl Sandburg and Walt Whitman. One of his favorite readings by Walt Whitman was Leaves of Grass.

In addition to his parents, Perry was also welcomed into heaven by his brother, Phil Cranford.

Left to cherish his memory is his daughter, Neeley Cranford; grandson, Dominick Caldera; and his fur baby, bob tail cat, Molly.

In accordance with Perry’s wishes, no formal services will be held.

"Sure as life holds all parts together, death holds all parts together, Sure as the stars return again after they merge in the light, death is great as life." – Walt Whitman, Leaves of Grass

Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com