Vincent D "Sonny" Parenti

It is with deep sorrow and immense love that we announce the passing of Vincent Donald Parenti, known to friends and family as "Sonny," who left us peacefully on June 4, 2025, at the age of 91. A devoted family man and vibrant spirit, Sonny lived his life surrounded by music, friendship, and an unwavering devotion to his family.
Born in East Boston on June 22, 1933, Sonny graduated from Boston English High School before beginning his professional journey running a janitorial cleaning business, where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for self-discipline. He later followed his passion for music into a role that brought him tremendous joy-working in sales for a major record label. That chapter not only deepened his love for music but also allowed him to immerse himself in an industry he truly cherished.
But it was through his decades-long involvement with the Italian American War Veterans (ITAM) club in Revere, that Sonny truly found his calling. For over 30 years, he was the heart and soul of the ITAM community. He organized countless social gatherings, published the club's monthly newsletter, ran weekly bingo nights, and for more than 20 years served as the ITAM's function manager. Sonny's leadership, energy, and devotion made the club a true home for many-and his presence there was a defining part of who he was.
Sonny had a natural gift for bringing people together. Whether hosting backyard pool parties, Sunday dinners, or lighting up the dance floor, he made every gathering memorable. A lifelong music lover, Sonny especially admired Frank Sinatra-one of his favorite artists-and was always ready to sing along to Sinatra classics at karaoke, much to the delight of family and friends. He especially loved traveling to the Caribbean, with St. Maarten holding a special place in his heart.
A passionate Boston sports fan, Sonny followed the Red Sox, Bruins, and Patriots with unwavering loyalty-rarely missing a game and always ready with an opinion.
Sonny's life was a true reflection of love, devotion, and family. He was the beloved husband of Marilyn "Chickie" Parenti, his wife of 67 years, and a dedicated father to his son Vincent and daughter-in-law Amy DiGiorgio, and to his daughter Rhonda Parenti. His love lives on through his cherished grandchildren: Dominic Portalla and his wife Danielle, Taylor Parenti and her fiancé Matt Coopersmith, Kylie Larrabee, and Madison Parenti. He was also the proud great-grandfather of Natalie Portalla, who brought him immense joy. Sonny also leaves behind his loving sister, Sharon Bower along with many dear friends and extended family who will miss him deeply.
A celebration of Sonny's life will be held on Tuesday, June 10th at the Ruggiero Family Memorial Home North Shore in Peabody, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM before leaving in procession to St. Adelaide's Church, 708 Lowell Street in Peabody for a 12:00 PM funeral mass. Services will conclude with Sonny being laid to rest at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park in Peabody. All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sonny's memory to the Alzheimer's Association online at alz.org or by mail to 320 Nevada St. Suite 201, Newton, MA 02460.
Vincent Donald Parenti lived life with joy, love, and rhythm-and he leaves behind a legacy that will forever dance in our hearts. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Vincent "Sonny", please visit our floral store.