With great sadness, SC State University is sharing that the Honorable Matthew J. Perry has passed away.
A native of Columbia, S.C., Judge Perry received a bachelor of science degree from SC State University, then South Carolina State College in 1948 and a law degree in 1951.
With the appointment by President Carter on September 22, 1979, the same year he was named an SC State distinguished alumnus, Judge Perry became the first African-American to be appointed to the United States District Court for the District of South Carolina. He assumed senior status on October 1, 1995.
“SC State University lost an outstanding, distinguished, pioneering loyal son today,” said SC State’s Dr. George E. Cooper. “We will continue to pray for Judge Perry’s family during this most difficult time and we hope that you share your prayers with them as well.”
