Nan was undoubtedly the most significant influence in my life. I followed in my sister's footsteps, starting piano lessons with Nan at the age of 5. I continued studying with her until I enrolled in the University of Western Ontario as a Piano Performance major. Nan said I was the first student to start as a beginner and complete the ARCT diploma with her. My father rightfully dubbed Nan, my "second mother".

The lessons taught more than just how to play the piano: they were lessons about dedication, commitment, and striving to be the best you can be. The experiences were many: lessons, Rudiments club, ORMTA recitals, performances during services at Colborne St. United, Kiwanis Festival competitions, RCM examinations, and finally, preparation for university auditions. Add to that her leadership of the Junior Choir at Colborne St. and involvement in the local Music Club and ORMTA. She encouraged involvement in all. Throughout university, Nan remained a vital support, making arrangements for practice recitals in Brantford, and traveling to London to hear juried recitals. After graduation, I opened my own teaching studio with Nan and Mark as the models for my practice, a secure grounding for my own success. Their skill, dedication, commitment, and joie de vivre have been an inspiration to many. May God bless you now and forever.

Love always, Linda

Nan and Mark Perry were two of the driving forces during my formative years as a young musician. Nan's joy, enthusiasm, insight and brilliance were infectious. Truly an amazing, inspiring and great lady! Sincere condolences to Laurene and Doug.

Mrs.Perry was always spontaneous and creative. One time, she changed how I played my piece that I was to play that day in the music festival. She start thinking the night before about how I played it. Some her ideas were based on what the adjudicator had said the day before. We worked that morning and I played the piece in the afternoon and got first place. She always encouraged and gave you her best.

To Nan's family: I will miss her very much. My teaching and musical training started with her and Mark. I am thankful she was in my life as a wonderful teacher and example. Lisa Marie Hooper

I was very sorry to hear of Nan Perry's passing. I remember her as a dynamo, always so full of life and passion and good humour. It goes without saying that music and her family were her great loves. During my weekly piano lessons, she made me feel like I was her only student, giving me her full attention, care and encouragement. I treasure the memories of our time together. Mrs. Perry was a wonderful teacher, but more importantly, she was a wonderful human being who made the world a lot brighter.

Janice and I were saddened to hear of Nan's death. Many fond memories come to mind - of our days in Brantford at then Colborne Street United Church, of the conversation and laughs we shared, and of our friendship.

For years, Nan not only sang in the choir but also led a Youth Choir. And she was a vital part of the dessert musicales we put on in Memorial Hall each year. She would do almost anything on stage. Three unforgettable episodes: (1) Nan and Sandy Westwater dressed up as cats and singing a duet about cats (the years that have passed dull the memory as to the name of the song, but it was both a hoot and a hit!) ... (2) Singing a duet (can't remember who with, but I think maybe Edna Bradley) called "We're A Couple Of Swells" - a song about a couple of tramps strolling down Park Avenue ... (3) Nan leaving not only her heart but several other body pieces too in San Francisco. Ah, Nan, those were the days.

Those students who were privileged to have Nan as a music teacher encountered one with remarkable talent - a talent that she freely shared with others, especially on Sunday morning at the piano in her incomparable duets with Mark. And how excited she was when there came the gift of the grand piano for the sanctuary.

With both Mark and Nan now gone, it is clear that an era has passed. But the music and the memories linger on!

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of Nan's family and friends as you celebrate the gift of her living among us.

Tom & Janice Watson