Clarence "Skip" L. Perry, III, 46, of Worcester, noted community youth activist passed away to his Lord, Sunday, July 5th 2009.

    Skip was born on December 7th, 1962, one of seven children of Clarence L. Perry, Jr and Maxalene (VanStory) Perry Avery. He graduated from Doherty Memorial High School, attended Quinsigamond Community College and has lived in Worcester all his life.

    Skip served his community as a mental health worked for the Worcester State Hospital, and previously as a forklift operator for Mass Export Corp. But, his dedication and love came from working at the Worcester Boys and Girls Club. His enthusiasm to helping kids carried over at the Boys Club as a Basketball coach, Staff director, counselor and youth mentor for over 20 years.

    Skip is survived by three devoted daughters, Rochelle C., Danelle C., and Cherelle S. Perry, all of Worcester; three brothers, Thomas Matier, and Todd Jackson both of Worcester, and Benjamin Avery of Holden; three sisters, Brenda Matier, Sandra Matier, and Doris Quartey all of Worcester; many nieces and nephews. Skip also leaves the mother of his children and life-long friend Henrean Burrell of Worcester. Skip was a member and youth mentor of Second Baptist Church. Skip also volunteered his time as a motivational speaker for Feet First. A program geared to young people on the Dangers of Diving head first into water. In 1980 he received the Sr. Thomas Lipton Award as Youth of the Year.

    Funeral services for Skip will be held Thursday, July 9th at 11:00 a.m. in Second Baptist Church, 14 Hammond Street. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. A period of Visitation will be held Thursday, July 9th from 10 to 11 a.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to 2nd Baptist Church Youth Group Fund, c/o Sovereign Bank, 51 Gold Star Boulevard, Worcester, MA 01605. The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St is honored to assist the family with arrangements.