It is with heavy hearts and grateful memories that we announce the passing of Anthony E. Perillo, 93, of East Haven, on January 10, 2026. Beloved husband of the late Elaine (DeFelice) Perillo. Loving father of Cynthia (Robert) Armor, Andrea (John) Ross, and Anthony R. Perillo all of East Haven. Grandfather of Robert A. Armor and Tyer, Mara, and Dana Ross. Born on December 7, 1932 in New Haven, CT, he was the son of the late Anthony F. Perillo and Anna (DePalma) Perillo. Tony grew up in Fair Haven where he had many fun times with his cousins from the DePalma family. He attended Wilbur Cross High School, graduating in 1951. He served in the U.S Army in Washington, DC from 1953-1955. After being honorably discharged, he earned his teaching credentials at New Haven State Teacher’s College, subsequently achieving a Masters Degree and a Sixth Year from UCONN. A dedicated New Haven educator, Tony spent many years at different grade levels, shaping young minds as a classroom teacher at schools including Fair Haven Middle and Woodward. During this time, Tony was involved in East Haven politics serving as Town Councilman in the 1970’s. After retiring from teaching, Tony pursued a second career as a real estate agent, where his kindness, honesty, and natural gift for connecting with people made him not only successful but deeply appreciated by clients and colleagues alike. Tony lived a life marked by faith, laughter, learning, and love. A devoted Catholic, he built his life on service, compassion, and integrity—values that guided him through every role he embraced. He was very involved in Our Lady of Pompeii Men’s Club activities, especially the summer fair and RCIA. He loved his morning mass group and spending time with his friends at Dunkin’. He also took pleasure in his lunches/dinners with his special group of old friends. A lifelong learner and avid reader, Tony could often be found immersed in a good book, ready to share an insight or a story (or a well-timed joke). In fact, he had a brief stint as the “Book-Mobile” driver for the Hagaman Memorial Library. He loved to travel with his beloved wife, Elaine, exploring new places and creating cherished memories with their children and grandchildren. His laughter—warm, genuine, and contagious—filled every room he entered. More than anything, Tony was a man of presence. Whether offering a helping hand, words of encouragement, or quiet moral support, he was always there. His steadfast faith and gentle wisdom guided his family and friends through both joys and trials. He will be greatly missed. The family would like to thank the staff at Connecticut Hospice for their compassionate care.
His funeral procession will leave the PORTO FUNERAL HOME, 234 Foxon Rd. (Rte. 80), East Haven Friday morning at 9:30. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish at Our Lady of Pompeii Church at 10:00. Interment with military honors will follow in All Saints Cemetery. Family and friends may call THURSDAY from 4:00-7:00 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org. Sign Tony's guest book online at www.portofuneralhomes.net.
