Sean David Persing

Sean David Persing, a Haverhill resident, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026, only three days after being diagnosed with cancer. He was 61 years old.

Born in Boston in 1964, Sean was adopted by June and Edward Alley. After Ed and June divorced, June married Robert Persing, who then adopted Sean. They moved to Andover in 1970 and soon Sean's brother Matthew was born.

Sean was a wonderful artist and excelled at drawing. He was a lover of Monty Python, science fiction, the best music of the 70's, reading, hilarity, friends, adventure, Boy Scouts and guitar. He was a powerful rock singer who had a voice that was pure and true. Sean was a cool older brother who freely shared everything he loved best in life. He was a favorite neighborhood babysitter who turned parent-free gatherings into exciting and hysterical adventures of story and fun. He could find an abundance of laughs anywhere and made sure everyone else did, too.

Sean faced challenges as a teen and his life became derailed by schizophrenia and depression. Many difficult and terrifying years were spent in various hospitals. He met the overwhelming hallucinations, delusions, horrors and personal fears he experienced with defiance, struggle, and a deep concern for mankind. When Sean suffered at his worst, his main mission was to stop these unstoppable dark forces from hurting others. He wanted to protect people.

When Sean was middle-aged, new medication afforded him the chance to find clarity and peace. He lived simply and utterly successfully, much like a monk cleansed by years of dedicated faith. He had absolutely no desire for personal wealth or gain and had no need to compete with anyone or anything. He was eternally gracious and was devoid of resentment. He met each person with impeccable manners. He was shy, humble, and never wanted any attention or recognition. His joy came from quietly doing the right thing for his friends, family, and fellow humans.

Sean was a champion for the welfare of others. He was on a strict limited budget, but still donated to charity. He was unable to work, but turned his attention towards trying to solve global hunger, disease, and disaster. He was a gifted empath who would offer comfort and help with sincerity and humility. His gentle and compassionate presence will be missed.

Sean is survived by his mother, June Persing of Benchmark North Andover, brother Matthew Persing and his wife Elizabeth of Haverhill, niece Sadie of Haverhill and dearest friend and roommate Terry. He is predeceased by his father Bob Persing of Plainfield.

A Private Sevice will be held to celebrate Sean's life. Arrangements made by Driscoll Funeral Home, Haverhill. For guestbook, visit www.driscollcares.com