For more than half a century, one Belle Haven home has quietly reflected a life shaped by curiosity, service, and a deep appreciation for both people and the natural world. The Perry family’s story spans generations, disciplines, and continents, yet it is firmly rooted in the rhythms of the neighborhood they have come to cherish.

At the center of the household is Col. John S. Perry, Ph.D., now 94, whose life has been defined by intellectual rigor and wide-ranging interests. Born on Long Island to immigrant parents, John pursued mathematics at Queens College before earning master’s and doctoral degrees in meteorology at the University of Washington. His career took him into the U.S. Air Force and later into scientific administration with organizations such as DARPA and the National Research Council, where he worked on issues related to sustainability and climate. Travel played a major role in his professional life, and those experiences helped cultivate a lasting global perspective. In retirement, John remains an active learner. He regularly reads “Science,” “Physics Today,” “The New Yorker,” and “The Economist.” And he watches shows on travel, history and cooking. 

John moved to the neighborhood in 1971 with his wife, Barbara, who has since passed away. At the time, his work with DARPA brought him from Alabama to Arlington, and the Belle Haven area offered a place to settle while raising a family. The neighborhood would become a long-term anchor through decades of change, professional travel, and family milestones.

Also calling Belle Haven home is John’s son, Stephen K. Perry, Ph.D., J.D., 71, whose own path reflects a similarly interdisciplinary spirit. Born in Seattle, Stephen was raised on Air Force bases while his father pursued degrees. He lived in Montgomery, Alabama his junior year of high school, and then in Belle Haven his senior year in high school when he attended Groveton High School (which was absorbed into West Potomac). Stephen finally returned to Belle Haven decades later. 

His academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from the University of Virginia, followed by master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of South Carolina. He later earned a law degree and graduated magna cum laude from the University of Tennessee College of Law. Over the years, Stephen worked in archaeology, geology, environmental science, and environmental consulting, largely based out of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, before practicing law. He retired after a varied and demanding career that spanned science, policy, and advocacy.  

Stephen returned to Belle Haven in 2019 after many years living in South Carolina, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, and Chicago. The move was motivated in part by the need to help care for aging parents and in part by a sense that Chicago never quite felt like the right fit. Coming back offered both familiarity and a renewed sense of purpose.

In addition to his scientific and legal work, Stephen is a skilled violin maker who operated Gianna Violins for 25 years and continues to build and repair instruments today. Music plays a central role in his life; he is an accomplished pianist who enjoys improvisation and a violin maker by trade. He is also an avid cyclist, birder, and former climber and caver. These days, he balances creative pursuits with homemaking duties, embracing the practical rhythms of daily life as readily as artistic ones. Stephen also volunteers with the Alexandria Seaport Foundation, where he teaches sailing, does boatbuilding and supports maritime education. 

The youngest member of the household is William R. Perry, 26, who has lived in the neighborhood for about four years. William, who is still gaining confidence in the world, tends to the house grounds while evaluating opportunities for education and work. He enjoys gaming, and benefits from the support and stability of family life which has helped him grow more comfortable engaging with the wider world.

The extended family includes Stephen’s daughter Sarah, who teaches high school in the Hampton Roads area. When not in the classroom, she enjoys indoor climbing, reflecting the family’s shared appreciation for physical challenge and exploration.

Animals have also been an important part of the Perry household. For many years, Benji, a Jack Russell terrier, was a familiar presence on neighborhood walks and something of a local character. His recent passing marked the end of an era for the family and nearby neighbors alike. Today, the household includes Cookie, a young cat who adds a new and livelier energy to the home. 

Life in Belle Haven is lived at a thoughtful pace. Holidays and special occasions tend to be low-key, often marked by a quiet meal out rather than large gatherings. What the family values most is time spent together and the simple pleasure of shared routines.

Much of that time is spent outdoors. Walks through the neighborhood offer opportunities to connect with neighbors and observe the changing seasons. Nearby natural spaces such as Huntley Meadows and Dyke Marsh are favorite destinations, providing rich habitats for birdwatching and reflection. The family also enjoys Old Town Alexandria, particularly its galleries, with Principle Gallery standing out as a frequent stop. 

While the Perrys do not currently participate extensively in organized neighborhood events, they express a genuine interest in becoming more involved. Their contribution to community life often takes quieter forms: friendly interactions on walks, shared appreciation for local wildlife, and a willingness to help when needed. These small, consistent connections help foster a sense of belonging and continuity.

When asked about favorite memories in the neighborhood, the answer centers on relationships—getting to know people gradually and recognizing familiar faces. Equally meaningful is the deep familiarity with the local birds and animals, whose presence adds texture and calm to daily life.

If there is one local organization the family is eager to highlight, it is the Alexandria Seaport Foundation, whose educational mission and community engagement align closely with their own values of learning, service, and stewardship.

In many ways, the Perry family embodies a quieter version of community life—one built on curiosity, respect, creativity, and care. Their story is woven into Belle Haven’s past and present, a reminder that lasting connections often grow through patience, shared interests, and an enduring love of place.