Nation's oldest mayor Tinton Falls' Vito Perillo dies at 100
TINTON FALLS ‑ Mayor Vito Perillo died Saturday night, according to several members of the Borough Council. He was 100 and the oldest mayor in the United States.
"It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Mayor Vito Perillo, a dedicated leader, mentor, and cherished friend to so many in our community. Mayor Perillo's unwavering commitment to public service and his passion for improving the lives of our residents made him a cornerstone of our town, influencing countless lives with his visionary leadership and compassionate spirit," wrote Councilman Michael J. Nesci on his Facebook page.
Born in 1924 when a gallon of gas cost 11 cents, Perillo, a World War II veteran and member of the "Greatest Generation," celebrated his 100th birthday Sept. 22.
He made national headlines in 2017 when, as a 93-year-old World War II veteran, he decided to enter politics and defeated the borough's incumbent mayor and former police Chief Gerald M. Turning. Perillo, motivated to run by a pair of whistleblower lawsuits involving the police department that cost the borough $1.1 million in settlements, went door-to-door in that campaign, handing out more than 7,500 flyers.
He was sworn in on a Bible that belonged to Mae, his wife of 64 years, who died in 2013. He won re-election in 2021 and was serving the last year of his four-year term.
Since 2019 he was believed to be the nation's oldest mayor. The distinction was formerly held by Booneville, Kentucky's former Mayor Charles Long, who died that year at the age of 99. After Long's death, the distinction fell to Perillo. It's unclear who has the honor following Perillo's death.
Nesci said during his time in office, Perillo was a tireless advocate for community development, and believed in the potential of every individual, tirelessly worked to create opportunities for all, fostering a sense of unity and hope within our community. His dedication extended beyond the role of mayor; he was a mentor to young leaders and a friend to all who crossed his path.
"As we grieve this tremendous loss, let us also celebrate his legacy of kindness, integrity, and service. Mayor Perillo's impact will be felt for generations, and his example will continue to inspire us as we strive to honor his memory. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time," Nesci said.
He added that a memorial service will be announced in the coming days.
During his working career, Perillo was a civil engineer and worked at Fort Monmouth. He raised his two daughters in Tinton Falls. Today, he has four grandkids and seven great-grandkids.
"To those who knew him personally, he was more than just a leader, he was a friend, a mentor and an inspiration," Business Administrator Charles Terefenko wrote in a prepared statement from the borough. "We extend our condolences to his family, friends, and all who mourn this tremendous loss."
It's not clear yet who will fill his seat. Risa Clay is the current council president.
When Jersey Shore native Dan Radel is not reporting the news, you can find him in a college classroom where he is a history professor. Reach him @danielradelapp; dradel@gannettnj.com.
This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Tinton Falls NJ Mayor Vito Perillo dies at age 100
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