Van Tolebe Perry III was born November 9, 1958 in St. Louis, MO to Van & Gloria Perry. He was preceded in death by his parents, paternal and maternal grandparents, great-grandmother, Gladys Faulk and stepfather, Fredrick McWherter.

Van "Dooley" was well known and never met a stranger. He was an outspoken person and a daredevil in his own way. Dooley worked for Busch Stadium and for the City Hall in East St. Louis for Mayor Alvin Parks.

Dooley joined Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Vincent D. Collins and he knew the Lord for himself.

Dooley loved his family. He loved partying with his family and friends. Dooley was a street hustler from the heart. He lived his life to the fullest, and even after his health started failing him, he never gave up. So to family, Van "Dooley" is alright now. No more pain or suffering.

Van "Dooley" leaves to cherish his memories two children, Ruvez Dale of East St. Louis, IL and Kyeshia Perry of East St. Louis, IL; two brothers, Ronnie Perry of East St. Louis, IL and Carlos Chandler of Elgin, IL; four grandchildren, Phaedra Dale, Torie Cosby, LeNiya Cary, and Aireon McNeil; three great-grandchildren, Amore Bernard, Akai Bernard, and Anderson Love all of East St. Louis. IL; one uncle, John Perry; two aunts, Gladys Biggs of Washington Park, IL and Diana Hawkins of East St. Louis, IL, a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins; special friends, Maxie Calamease, Minister Gail Washington, and Charlotte Hyde.