TINTON FALLS, N.J. (1010 WINS) – Vito Perillo, believed to be the oldest serving mayor in the United States, died over the weekend at the age of 100 while serving his second term in Tinton Falls, New Jersey.
"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," Borough Administrator Charles Terefenko said in a statement. "Respected and admired by all who had the privilege of knowing him, Mayor Perillo led with wisdom, kindness, and a deep sense of duty."
Born in 1924, Perillo was first elected as mayor of Tinton Falls in 2017 at the age of 93.
He had served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. After his military service, he embarked on a long career as a civil engineer at Fort Monmouth, according to his town mayor profile.
During his inaugural campaign, he went door-to-door, distributing over 7,500 flyers, and wore out two pairs of shoes in the process. His dedication led to a victory margin of over 300 votes, making him mayor at an age when most are long retired.
He won re-election in 2021 at 97, securing 38% of the vote in a four-candidate race, outpacing his nearest opponent by four points and 289 votes.
"They tell me I'm the oldest mayor in the country," Perillo told NJ Advance Media after his re-election in 2021. "I'm feeling pretty good, and I think everybody in the borough feels good, too. They were all happy for me this morning."
"As a World War II veteran and mayor of Tinton Falls, Vito leaves behind an incredible legacy of service," Gov. Phil Murphy wrote on X. "Our hearts go out to his loved ones and the entire Tinton Falls community."