Joseph Ray Perry, the father of U.S. Secretary of Energy Rick Perry, has died.
According to the former governor, the 92-year old flew 35 combat missions over Europe during WWII before returning home to Haskell County. The elder Perry also served as a county commissioner.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott released a statement saying,
"Cecilia and I extend our deepest condolences to Secretary Perry and his family during this difficult time. Ray Perry was a true Texan in every sense of the word, and he embodied the values of faith, family and freedom that we in the Lone Star State hold dear. We ask that all Texans join us in offering their prayers for the Secretary's family as they as mourn the loss of a great man."
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick also issued a statement:
"Jan and I send our deepest condolences to my good friend, U.S. Secretary of Energy, Rick Perry, for the loss of his father, Joseph Ray Perry," Patrick said.