Virgil Ray Sperry, 74, of LaFayette, Georgia, passed away in his sleep early Friday March 11, 2016, within weeks of a diagnosis of melanoma.
Born in Cedar Rapids, IA in 1942, he graduated from Washington High School in 1960, and enlisted in the US Navy later that same year. He was stationed at Naval Submarine Base Groton, CT where he met and married Karen Cecilia Moore of Salem, CT in 1964. Serving as nuclear Machinist Mate he attained the rank of Chief Petty Officer and CW2 prior to his separation. He worked as a plant manager in the plastics industry for nearly 30 years before he and Karen went into business for themselves. He and his family have lived and travelled extensively around the world. Virgil was instrumental to the success of many groups: USS Carbonero Base Submarine Veterans Association, North Georgia Animal League, Paws to Read at Lafayette-Walker Co Public Library, Walker County Development Authority, Northwest Georgia Regional Commission, and the Georgia Hwy 27 Association.
He was preceded in death by his father, Clyde Oliver Sperry who died in France serving in WWII; his mother, Madeline Marie Griffin Sperry of Cedar Rapids, IA; and a sister, Alice Faye Sperry.
He is survived by his wife, Karen; his son, Adam Del Sperry and husband Marwick Kane of Los Angeles, CA; daughter, Cynthia Luella Sperry of Washington, DC; sister, Shirley Jean Sperry Feiereisen and husband Robert of Walford, IA; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Burial will be in the Chattanooga National Cemetery on April 22, at 9:15 a.m. All are warmly welcomed to attend.
Donations to Sarah Cannon Research Institute are preferred in lieu of flowers.
Arrangements are by Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.