By Sunayana Prabhu
TINTON FALLS – Vito Perillo, the two-term mayor of Tinton Falls – believed to be the oldest mayor in the United States – died Feb. 22 at the age of 100. A World War II veteran, electronics engineer and then a public servant in his 90s, Perillo’s story was one of resilience and dedication to community service.
Born in 1924, Perillo’s life spanned a century of history. He trained as an electronics engineer before, during and after his service in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Montrose, fighting in the Pacific during WWII. After 40 years of service in logistics at Fort Monmouth, he worked for a government subcontracting firm and later put his MBA to use at an accounting firm.
But it wasn’t until his 90s that Perillo, then retired and seeking a new way to contribute, entered the political arena.
According to his obituary, in 2017, “not one to sit idle,” concerns about property taxes and other issues led Perilllo at the age of 93, to run for mayor of Tinton Falls. In 2021, at the age of 97, Perillo was re-elected to a second term, outpolling a number of other candidates. For many, his election at such an advanced age was a symbol of perseverance and dedication to one’s community.
He celebrated his 100th birthday in September, having already made the decision not to seek a third term, signaling his step back from the political spotlight.
“Even at his birthday, he made the comment, ‘I don’t want to run again, but I might go out and find another job,’ ” said Tinton Falls Council President Risa Clay, who is now serving as acting mayor. “And I thought, ‘Wow, that’s remarkable.’ ”
Tinton Falls Borough Administrator Charles Terefenko issued a statement on behalf of the borough announcing Perillo’s death and commending him as a “man of integrity and a beloved member of our community,” one who “served assiduously” for nearly eight years and forged deep connections with the people of Tinton Falls, the statement said.
Perillo’s tenure in office was characterized by “wisdom,” “kindness” and a “deep sense of duty” to improve the town. Though his leadership style was not without challenges, Clay fondly remembered his drive to do what was right for the town.
“Despite his remarkable age, his true legacy was his energy and his passion for making change. He was always willing to step forward and do the right thing,” Clay said, acknowledging that although they didn’t always agree, they were always able to find common ground.
Perillo’s passing comes just months after the death of council member John Manginelli, who died in November at age 85. With both leaders now gone, Clay reflected on how deeply their losses would be felt by the town. “It’s definitely going to impact us, and he will definitely be missed,” she said.
During Perillo’s 100th birthday celebrations, he received awards and recognition from the borough, from state Sen. Vin Gopal and from Navy Capt. K.D. Smith and others at Earle Naval Station. Those awards were a testament to the impact he had on the community. His efforts included lowering property taxes, opening Wardell Park, and achieving other goals for the borough.
Elected officials across the state have expressed their condolences. “Deeply saddened by the passing of our nation’s oldest mayor, Vito Perillo,” Gov. Phil Murphy wrote on X. “As a World War II veteran and mayor of Tinton Falls, Vito leaves behind an incredible legacy of service.”
“His story is one of inspiration, and his impact on the community will continue to be felt for years to come,” Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas Arnone wrote in a statement. Gopal added, “God bless his life and legacy,” paying tribute to the late mayor’s service and character.
Perillo’s wife, Mae Perillo, pre-deceased him in 2013. He is survived by his two daughters, four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Though his passing marks the end of an era for Tinton Falls, Vito Perillo’s story is a testament that proves “that dedication to community service has no age limit,” Arnone said.
As the borough council prepares to elect an interim mayor March 18, the borough administration reflected on Perillo’s lasting impact, concluding with the heartfelt statement, “Rest in peace, Mayor Perillo. Your legacy will live on in our hearts.”
Funeral arrangements for Vito Perillo include visitation from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 27, at John E. Day Funeral Home, 85 Riverside Ave., Red Bank. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Feb. 28, at St. James Church, Red Bank. Interment will follow at Fair View Cemetery in Middletown.
The article originally appeared in the February 27 – March 5, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
