A friend to all who knew him, and always smiling, Stephen Henry Perry passed away unexpectedly at his home in Austin on May 11, 2020 at the age of 62.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Gayle and O.V. Perry; his sister, Camille Faulks; his uncle, Vestal Ray Lucas; and nephew, Lucas Faulks. He is survived by his niece, Katherine Nichol Faulks, of Lubbock.
Steve was born on August 28, 1957 in Lubbock, Texas to parents Gayle and O.V. Perry. Raised in Lubbock with his sister, Camille, Steve loved live music and found one of his passions – the game of golf – as a teenager. He played trumpet in the band and was a member of the golf team at Monterey High School, from which he graduated in 1975. Steve went on to attend both Texas Tech University and later, the University of Texas at Austin, where he graduated with a degree in government in 1983.
In the mid-80’s, Steve began his career in politics working for State Representative George Pierce at the Texas Capitol. The legislative process captured his interest and made for an accomplished and remarkable career. He evolved from Capitol staffer to lobbyist in 1990, when he worked as a state government affairs representative for Texaco. He then went on to lead government affairs for Altura Energy and started his own lobby firm, Perry and Associates, prior to serving as the State Government Affairs Manager for Chevron in Texas, New Mexico, Colorado and Oklahoma.
Steve fiercely loved his family and dedicated much of his time to his niece, Katherine, and became even more significant in her life following the passing of his sister, Camille and his mother, Gayle. Steve was a quiet counselor and calming force to many in his life, whether through reassuring words of support, encouragement or even assistance in helping others manage significant life issues.
Over the course of his 35-year career in government affairs, Steve built an extensive network of friends and was well regarded by all who knew him. His commitment to helping others was reflected in the time and energy he invested in people. Steve treated everyone with respect and kindness regardless of position or stature and, as a result, built long-lasting, trusting friendships. Many enduring relationships were fostered through his work in the Texas Capitol, leadership in trade associations, community involvement, and non-profits.
One of Steve’s greatest passions was his love for live music and the Austin arts community. One of his most philanthropic efforts was his generous support of the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM). Through HAAM, Steve struck up a lasting friendship with Ray Benson of Asleep at the Wheel. Many will recall Ray calling out Steve by name from the stage as “Steve, the GOOD Perry.” A constant with Steve was including friends for music festivals, ACL tapings, the opera and wherever music and fun intersected.
Over the 45-plus years he played, Steve never tired of golf. Surely the top of his bucket list had to be attending The Masters Championship twice and sharing recollections with friends over a cigarette and a margarita.
Steve was affable, kind, and a genuine friend who listened intently and loved a good story and people. We mourn the loss of our friend but know he is enjoying a family reunion and playing the fairways of heaven. A reception to honor and celebrate Steve’s life will be announced at a later date.
