Perry Robert Arrington

Perry Robert Arrington, age 73, who was born in Greenville, South Carolina, and spent most of his life in Leland, North Carolina, passed away on March 6, 2026. Known to many as “Mr. Perry,” “Uncle Perry,” or “Preacher Perry,” he was simply “Dad” or “Daddy” to his children and “Makin’ Bacon” to his friends in the trucking community. His wit, warm laugh, and ability to brighten any situation left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Perry also served for many years with the Leland Volunteer Rescue Squad. He spent much of his career as a truck driver, a job that allowed him to indulge his lifelong love of working with heavy equipment and “playing in the dirt.” Perry was a deeply faithful man who lived with genuine selflessness, charm, and optimism. He greeted strangers and friends alike with a smile and a thoughtful word, often delivered with a twinkle in his eye that hinted at an upcoming joke.

He is survived by his son, Perry “Ace” Arrington and wife Traci, and his daughter Sabrina Johnson, both of Wilmington. He also leaves behind his grandchildren Ayden Arrington, Kristin Ammons, and Donovan Ammons, who were the light of his life. Perry is further survived by his brothers Patrick Arrington (Jennie) of Greenville, South Carolina; William Arrington (Sonja) of Columbia, South Carolina; Phil Spaulding (Lori) of Ocean Isle Beach; and Lee Arrington of Anderson, South Carolina; as well as his dear friend Nancy Miller Locklear.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Una and Harry Spaulding and Walter Arrington II; his sister, Nancy L. Norris; and his brothers, Walter Arrington III and David Arrington.