Raymond Anthony Perez

Raymond Anthony Perez "Ray", 70 ,of Madeira Beach passed away April 7, 2024. He was born and raised in Tampa then moved later in life to St. Petersburg/ Madeira Beach. He was preceded in death by parents, Cristo and Aidee Perez. Ray is survived by his two daughters Sarah Perez (Marci) and Emily Perez, his fiancée Maryellen Waskiewicz and her daughter, Nikki Waskiewicz, sister; Roxanne Perez, grandchildren; Alaina and Tony Rodriguez and Blake Bevacqua- Bailey, and his beloved dog; Bernie. Ray enjoyed fishing. golfing, playing guitar, boating, treasure hunting and spending precious time with Maryellen. Private Perez enlisted in FL Army National Guard in August of 1971 as a Private (PV1) and held every enlisted rank culminating in being promoted to Command Sergeant Major in October of 2000. He culminated his career as a Brigade Operation Sergeant Major from October 31,2004 to January 31,2007. After retiring from the Army, Ray participated in the family assistance program in helping soldiers transitioning upon arriving home and for the last 15 years he has held several positions within the American Legion assisting veterans and families which gave him great joy. Awards include Legion of Merit, Army Commendation Medal (4th award) Army Achievement Medal (4th Award), Army Good Conduct Medal (5th Award), Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (3rd Award), National Defense Service Medal, Non commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal (2nd Award), Army Reserved Component Overseas Training Ribbon (2nd Award), Florida State Active Duty Ribbon (10th Award) Florida Meritorious Ribbon (10th Award), Florida Accommodation Medal (2nd Award), Florida Service Ribbon (4th Award), Florida Distinguish Service Medal (2nd Award), Florida National Guard Recruiting Ribbon. The Viewing will be held at E. James Reese Funeral Home at 6767 Seminole Blvd, Seminole .FL 33772 on Friday April 12, 2024 from 2pm to 5pm & 7pm to 9pm Ray's Celebration of Life will be held at the American Legion Post 273, 600 American Legion Dr Madeira Beach, FL 33708 on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 from 2pm to 7pm. In lieu of flowers, we ask for donations to be made in Ray's memory to his favorite charities listed below: Stop Solider Suicide Bridging the Gap Mail to American Legion Post 273, 600 American Legion Drive, Madeira Beach, FL 33707 Southeastern Guide Dogs Inc