Vito Perillo, the mayor of Tinton Falls in Monmouth County, New Jersey, has passed away at the age of 100. Known for his integrity, dedication, and lifelong service to his community and country, Perillo was one of the oldest serving mayors in the United States.
In an official statement, Tinton Falls Borough Administrator Charles Terefenko said, “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mayor Vito Perillo, a man of integrity, and a beloved member of our community.”
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy also expressed his condolences, calling Perillo’s passing a loss for both the state and the nation. “Deeply saddened by the passing of our nation’s oldest mayor, Vito Perillo, at the age of 100. As a World War II veteran and mayor of Tinton Falls, Vito leaves behind an incredible legacy of service. Our hearts go out to his loved ones and the entire Tinton Falls community.”
Funeral arrangements for Mayor Perillo have not yet been announced.
A Late Start in Politics: Becoming Mayor at 93
Perillo’s political career began at an age when most people are enjoying retirement. In 2017, at the age of 93, he ran for mayor of Tinton Falls and won, defeating incumbent Gerald Turning by a margin of 300 votes. His inspiration to run stemmed from concerns about rising tax rates affecting his neighbors.
“I thought, I got to do something about it,” Perillo said in an interview with CBS News New York’s Cindy Hsu.
He proved that age is just a number by winning a second term in 2021 when he was 97 years old. Throughout his eight years in office, Perillo worked tirelessly to represent the best interests of the Tinton Falls community. Terefenko remarked, “For the past eight years, he served assiduously, always striving to do what was right for the people he represented.”
A Life of Service: WWII Veteran and Engineer
Before stepping into the political spotlight, Perillo had already led a remarkable life. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, alongside his brother, demonstrating courage and dedication to his country. After the war, he pursued a career as an electronics engineer and later worked as an accountant before entering politics.
Legacy of Vito Perillo
Vito Perillo’s life serves as a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to make a difference. His dedication to public service, even at an advanced age, and his commitment to the well-being of Tinton Falls residents will leave a lasting legacy.
As the community mourns the loss of a true leader, many will remember Perillo not just as a mayor, but as a compassionate neighbor, a veteran, and an inspiration for future generations.
