Life Member Jesse T. Perry, a Nashville-based civil engineer who taught architect-engineer contracting to hundreds of professionals over a lengthy career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, has died at 82.
Known as “Jess,” Perry, P.E., F.ASCE, was active in ASCE since his membership began in 1963. He was president of the Nashville Section in 1974-75. Many consultants who aspired to contract with the Corps or other federal agencies learned from his nationally known expertise.
Perry earned his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering at Vanderbilt University on an ROTC scholarship, eventually resigning his commission at the rank of Captain.
Following his military service, Perry worked three years with the Tennessee Valley Authority before moving on to the Corps’ Nashville District, where he served until his retirement.
He also belonged to the Tennessee Society of Professional Engineers and the Society of American Military Engineers.
A son followed Perry into civil engineering and into ASCE leadership. Jon Perry, P.E., M.ASCE, of Gresham, Smith and Partners, is a past president of the Nashville Branch.
