Perry prepped at Germantown High School in Madison, prior to his junior college playing career. In the high school ranks, Perry helped Germantown win five district champions and three MHSAA state championships. After his playing career ended, Perry continued his education at Mississippi State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in history and anthropology, before pursuing a master’s degree from the University of Mississippi in anthropology.

Upon completion, Perry worked at Ole Miss in the anthropology department for one year but returned to the community college ranks knowing that coaching was his ultimate goal.