Riegelwood, North Carolina Honors the Legacy of Teacher Neil Perry
Riegelwood, North Carolina – A normally quiet stretch of N.C. 87 outside Riegelwood became the site of a deeply saddening incident early Thursday morning, marking the loss of Neil Perry — a respected educator and experienced entertainment professional whose contributions reached far beyond the classroom. The incident occurred shortly after dawn, around 6:38 a.m., as Perry was driving south through Columbus County along a route he often traveled.
According to early information, Perry encountered an obstruction in his lane and attempted to avoid it, causing his vehicle to cross the center line and leave the roadway. His car came to a stop after striking a tree. Perry, 55, was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was wearing a seatbelt at the time.
Emergency responders arrived quickly and provided immediate assistance, but despite their efforts, Perry could not be revived and was pronounced at the scene. His passing has left his family, colleagues, and students mourning a loss that feels both sudden and deeply personal.
The news spread quickly through Methodist University, where Perry served in the Communication & Media department. Although officially a part-time member of the faculty, his influence was full-time. With a long career in music, television, and film — including award nominations and industry recognition — Perry brought real-world experience into the classroom in a way students greatly valued.
His teaching style blended practical insight with genuine encouragement. Students appreciated that he spoke not from theory, but from professional experience that spanned decades. His lessons often connected industry realities with classroom learning, making him a mentor whose guidance felt meaningful and relevant.
Provost Dr. Suzanne Blum Malley shared that the university community is deeply saddened, describing Perry as a unique educator whose expertise and generosity made him an irreplaceable part of the program. His ability to translate lived experience into impactful teaching, she said, set him apart.
Outside the university, those closest to Perry remember him as a devoted family man whose creativity and warmth shaped every relationship in his life. His passing has left his loved ones navigating a difficult and unexpected loss.
Across the Riegelwood and Methodist University communities, many are now reflecting on Perry’s contributions, his talent, and the encouragement he offered to others. While the circumstances of the morning remain a source of sadness, his legacy — built on passion, creativity, and a commitment to sharing his knowledge — continues to resonate with all who knew him.
