Rev Thomas Perry

Died 1922 in Cape Town, WC, South Africa

After maintaining two pastorates successfully, one at East Dulwich and the other at King’s Lynn in Norfolk, England, the Rev Thomas Perry’s health deteriorated.

In 1898 he settled in King Williams Town, located in the southeast part of what is today the Eastern Cape of South Africa.

As successor to Rev John Edgar Ennals, Thomas soon proved himself as an able preacher and wise administrator. The cause flourished under his oversight and there were many conversions and professions. He took great interest in “the Children’s Home” as Ennals had done as honorary director; as well as in other institutions of the town – but the church was always first, and for nine years his influence for good on the border was great. Thomas was greatly loved by his people and it was a blow to them when he announced his resignation, on the acceptance of his call to Troyeville in 1907. The well appointed building at Troyeville is his memorial – a monument to his untiring energy and devotion.

He suffered a stroke in 1913 and never fully recovered from it. Despite this he was able with great courage and determination, to fulfil two further ministries – one at Claremont (1914 – 1916) and then in the mother church Grahamstown (1916 - 1919). In all his work and in his sickness he enjoyed the enthusiastic support and comfort of his wife, Nancy Perry, who founded the Baptist Women’s Association.

In 1903 he was elected to the presidency of the Baptist Union. For 12 years he filled the office of missionary secretary; for a long period he edited our magazine; he organised the 100,000 shilling fund, and was foremost in all efforts for church extension. He took a leading place in the religious life of the Witwatersrand and was chairman of the Witwatersrand Church Council. He was essentially a worker and brought to all he did a sanity and wise judgment which rendered effective the many things he did and aided. He was loved by all.

Written by: Syd Hudson-Reed