Mark L. Perry

Mark Leland Perry, 67, of Malden, MA, passed away unexpectedly on October 20, 2025. Born in Beverly, MA, on April 16, 1958, he was the son of the late Leland Jr. and Rosemary (Tiernan) Perry.
Mark grew up in Beverly, MA as one of seven children. While still in high school he enlisted in the US Navy and proudly served his country until his honorable discharge in 1985. He often told stories of the places he visited to the delight of his kids and grandkids. A proud veteran, he carried his sense of duty, loyalty, and humor throughout his life.
Mark was a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), a cause he felt passionate about. He was also a longtime member of the Irish American Club and an avid supporter of the New England Patriots. He never missed watching a game, whether in person or on TV. He spent years camping on Lake Winnipesaukee with his family, making many great memories. He enjoyed playing golf with his son and nephews and any good Looney Family party.
Mark was always willing to lend a hand and was one of the first people many in his family called for help. If he didn't know how to fix something, he always managed to figure it out. He was always happy to sit at the bar or out on a deck and share a cold Bud Light with friends. In retirement, he found great joy traveling with his wife and friends. He could also be found at his grandkid's sporting events, dance recitals, parades, and competitions. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Mark was the beloved husband of 45 years to Kerri Ann (Looney) Perry. He was the loving father of Laureen Alefantis and her husband, John, of Wilmington, MA; Christine Nichols and her husband, Joshua, of Methuen, MA; and Matthew Perry of Malden, MA. He was the proud grandfather of five grandchildren: Elizabeth Nichols, Samantha Nichols, Madelyn Alefantis, Benjamin Alefantis, and Jack Alefantis.
Mark is also survived by his siblings Cheryl Perry, James Perry, his wife Robin, Joseph Perry, his wife Roxana, Mary Knox, her husband Michael, Kathy Perry, and her partner Ann. Mark was predeceased by his sister Donna Perry. When he married Kerri, he was lucky to find another set of siblings who loved him, including Thomas Looney and his wife Sandra, Donna Looney and her partner Richard Doherty, and Erin Smigliani and her husband Alex. Mark was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Joseph Looney.He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who loved him.
His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Visiting hours will be held from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm, on Wednesday, October 29th, 2025, at the Gately Funeral Home, 79W. Foster St., Melrose. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 am on Thursday, October 30th, 2025, at the Immaculate Conception Church, 600 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA. Interment to follow the Mass at Lakeside Cemetery, Wakefield, MA. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Mark's memory to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV): https://tinyurl.com/DAV-Donation-in-Memory-of-Mark