Jemajo Joseph Perry peacefully passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 95. He spent his later years at Jasmine Terrace Retirement & Assisted Living in Pasadena, California, where he was cherished by everyone who knew him. His kind heart, gentle warmth, and ever-present smile brightened the days of residents and staff alike. He is survived by his daughter, Yvette Lynn Campbell, his son, Leon Glenn Perry, and his three grandchildren.
Mr. Perry devoted more than 40 years of service as a custodian at Los Angeles Community College (LACC), where he was respected for his dedication and humility. A man of many quiet talents, he had a deep love for classical music and taught himself to play both the marimba and the violin. He later performed in an ensemble at LACC, sharing his music with joy and gratitude. Above all, he was a caring and steadfast father whose calm presence and gentle nature shaped the lives around him.
He delighted in simple pleasures—Chinese food for a favorite meal and a comforting cup of hot black tea he enjoyed each day.
Born Joseph Jemajo Perry at Sloan Hospital in New York City on September 12, 1930, he was the son of Dorothy Stevenson (1912–1934) of New Orleans, Louisiana, and America’s first Black movie star to achieve millionaire status, Stepin Fetchit (Lincoln T. Perry, 1902–1985). His early years were marked by both love and loss; after his mother tragically passed away from tuberculosis just before his fourth birthday, Jemajo was embraced and raised by family in Los Angeles.
Despite the hardships he faced early in life, Mr. Perry grew into a man of deep faith and resilience - a devoted Christian whose gentle spirit touched all who met him in his later years.
May his soul rest in God’s eternal peace, and may his memory forever be a blessing to those who loved him.
The final resting place for Jemajo is Rose Hills Memorial Park, located at 3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier. The specific burial location is Meadowbrook 2, Row 2, Lot 20229, Space 3, Gate Number 1.
