Obituary of Peggy Perricane
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Margaret "Peggy" Perricane, who left us on December 26, 2024, in Montville, NJ. Born on October 13, 1938, to Daniel and Maggie Kerr in Newark, NJ, Peggy lived a life filled with love, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her family and profession.
Peggy pursued her dream of helping others by becoming a registered nurse, a career she passionately embraced for over 50 years. Her compassionate spirit and skilled hands saved countless lives, culminating in her retirement as an operating room nurse at Morristown Medical Center in 2002. She often recounted stories from her years in nursing, sharing heartfelt moments that highlighted her commitment to her patients and her joy in making a difference in their lives. Her dedication to her profession was not just a job but a calling that defined her life’s purpose.
In 1967, Peggy faced the heartbreaking loss of her first husband, John Ryan. Left to navigate life as a single mother, she rose to the challenge with grace and strength, nurturing her children with love and determination. She instilled in them the values of hard work, compassion, and resilience, ensuring they knew the importance of family and community. In 1969, she found love again with Stephen Perricane, and they shared a beautiful life together filled with laughter, music, and love until his passing in 1998.
Peggy's passions extended beyond her nursing career. She was an avid reader with a particular fondness for mysteries and romance novels, often losing herself in the pages of her favorite books. A talented crocheter and knitter, she created beautiful pieces that were not only gifts for loved ones but also a source of pride for her creativity. Family vacations were a cherished tradition, especially the trips to Long Beach Island and Seaside, NJ, where her laughter echoed across the shore, reminding her loved ones of the joy of being together.
Her home was a sanctuary filled with love and warmth, where every corner reflected her unique personality and style. Peggy cherished her role as a grandmother, a title that brought her immeasurable joy. She would often say that being a grandma was her greatest achievement, as she showered her grandchildren with love, wisdom, and the occasional mischievous adventure. Small in stature but mighty in spirit, Peggy was known for her fiery personality and her ability to express her feelings openly. She had a knack for turning ordinary moments into cherished memories, whether through her infectious laughter or her witty remarks. Her Irish heritage filled her with pride, and she embraced it wholeheartedly. Peggy loved British comedies, especially the adventurous antics of James Bond.
She had a particular fondness for music and dance, often reminiscing about the nights spent dancing with Stephen, their laughter mingling with the melodies of their favorite songs. Peggy often indulged in what she affectionately called “Mystery Rides,” which usually led her to the furniture store to refresh her home décor. Her home became a canvas of her creativity, a reflection of her vibrant spirit. Her stubbornness was legendary, but so was her sense of humor, which could light up any room. She had the remarkable ability to find joy in the simplest of things and encouraged others to do the same, reminding them to cherish every moment. Peggy Perricane leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and laughter. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Peggy`s family was her greatest joy. She leaves behind her children, Paul Ryan, Michael (Lisa) Perricane, and Suzanne (Joe) Gagliardi, who were the light of her life. She adored her 6 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren and was proud of each of their accomplishments and the people they had become. Peggy also leaves behind her brother Daniel Duffy and his wife Anne, and many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends. As saddened as we are by her passing, we take great comfort in knowing she is now reunited in heaven with her beloved husbands John and Stephen and her siblings Johnny, Michael, and Nora.
If you would like to contribute to Peggy’s memory in your own way, please consider making a charitable contribution to an organization that does amazing work for a great cause; Alzheimer’s Association.
Friends and relatives are welcome to join the family for a public visitation on Monday, December 30th, from 3 PM to 7 PM at Norman Dean Home for Services, Inc., 16 Righter Ave, Denville, NJ 07834. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 31st, at 10 AM at St. Mary’s Church, Denville, NJ. Please take this time to share a memory, leave a condolence, or light a candle to continue to let Peggy`s light shine!
In honoring her memory, let us celebrate the vibrant life she lived, the countless lives she touched with her kindness and spirit, and the love she shared so generously with everyone around her. Rest in peace, dear Peggy; your light will forever shine in our hearts.
