She returned to Holy Cross as athletic director in 1972, pioneering women’s athletics during her 32-year administration and overseeing the construction of numerous athletic facilities, including the Hart Center.

In 1979, the National Basketball Coaches Association gave Perry one of its highest honors by naming him to its Silver Anniversary Basketball team, which recognizes student-athletes who stand out after their college careers. Perry and Bob Cousy are the only Holy Cross graduates honored.

Perry is still the all-time leading scorer at Somerville High School (1,154 points) and led the New England Championship in 1949. He also compiled 186 points while coaching Catholic Memorial to three state championships and a 292-34 record in basketball. -53 record as Knights’ baseball coach. Somerville is a member of the Catholic Memorial, Holy Cross and ECAC halls of fame.

“It has extra meaning,” CM football coach John DiBiaso said The team will play in St. Petersburg on Saturday. Following a 34-0 win over St. John’s Prep.. “Every time we step on the field, we are not only playing for this year’s team, but also for the teams and tradition that came before us. This was a great win for us and I hope the Perry family can get through such a difficult time. Our hearts go out to them.”

After graduation, Perry joined the Marines for three years before starting his career as an educator. He worked dutifully for decades to care for his wifeAfter Pat had a stroke. The couple had three children and many grandchildren.

His son, Ron Perry Jr., was a basketball star at CM, where he scored a record 2,481 points, and at Holy Cross, where he remains the school’s all-time leading scorer. Perry Jr. He was drafted by both the Celtics and Red Sox.

A funeral service will be held Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. at Gormley Funeral Home in West Roxbury, and Saturday at 11 a.m. at St. A funeral service will be planned at Theresa Church.

Brendan Kurie can be reached at [email protected].