John B. Perroni, Sr.

SALEM – Mr. John B. Perroni, Sr., 93 of Salem and the devoted husband of 69 years to the late Barbara P. (O’Connell) Perroni, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026 at the Kaplan Family Hospice House with his family by his side.

Born on March 14, 1932, to the late John and Ann (Corrao) Perroni, John's lifelong journey unfolded in the City of Salem, where he touched the lives of countless individuals through his passion for education, athletics, and community service.

John was a proud graduate of Salem High School, Class of 1950, and continued his academic journey at Salem Teachers College, where he received his degree in 1957. John was captain of the basketball team in college and helped lead the team to the New England State Teachers College Conference championship in his senior year. In 2008 he was inducted into the Salem State Athletic Hall of Fame for baseball and basketball. His love for his alma maters shone brightly, especially during basketball season, where he passionately supported both the boys’ and girls’ teams, forging connections with former students and fellow alumni.

Honoring his commitment to service, John enlisted in the United States Army and bravely served during the Korean War Era. After his military service, he dedicated himself to a fulfilling 40-year career in education, teaching in both Beverly and Salem Public Schools. John was not just a teacher but a mentor, guiding generations of students and instilling in them a love of learning. In addition to his role in the classroom, he worked with the City of Salem’s Recreation Department, tirelessly advocating for youth programs and community engagement and in retirement, continued to benefit the community of Salem State and the supervisor of student teachers.

John's dedication extended beyond education; he was actively involved in numerous organizations, including the Christopher Columbus Society and the Italian American Credit Union, where he proudly served as president. His passion for sports was evident in every facet of his life—coaching basketball for Beverly and Manchester-by-the-Sea, celebrating victories and learning from defeats alongside his players, and cheering for all Boston sports teams.

In addition to his many accomplishments, John cherished his family bonds, particularly as a devoted grampy and great-grampy. His enthusiasm for attending extracurricular events highlighted his unwavering love for family and his commitment to fostering connections. A proud Sicilian, John delighted in traveling with his "Travel with John" group, creating lasting memories with lifelong friends while exploring many enchanting places, especially across Europe.

John leaves behind a wealth of memories that will forever resonate in the hearts of family, friends, and students alike. He was a man that embraced life with joy, valuing community, family, and lasting friendships until the very end.

John is survived by his children, John Perroni and his companion, Alice DaSilva of Peabody, Sharon Bird and her husband, John of East Wakefield, NH, Linda Raye and her husband, Charles of Exeter, NH, Kathleen Richard and her husband, Arthur of Salem and David Perroni of Salem; his grandchildren, Melissa, Michael, Shawna, Leanne, Kevin, Charles, Michelle, Nicole, Anthony, Tyler and Cameron; 11 great grandchildren; his brother-in-law, George O’Connell and his wife, Lorraine; several nieces and nephews and many lifelong and dear friends. In addition to his parents and beloved wife, Barbara, John was predeceased by his son, Stephen Perroni; and sisters, Cosima and Margaret Perroni.

ARRANGEMENTS: Relatives and friends are invited to attend John’s funeral which will be held at O’Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 84 Washington Sq., (at Salem Common) SALEM on Thursday, March 5th at 11 A.M. with his burial to follow in Greenlawn Cemetery, Salem. Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, March 4th from 4 to 7 P.M. In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be made to Care Dimensions Hospice, 75 Sylvan St., (Suite B-102), Danvers, MA 01923 or online at https://secure.qgiv.com/for/xuihvw. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.