Jane Mildred Perrelli

Jane Mildred McHugh Perrelli passed peacefully on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, surrounded by her family. Born June 12, 1936, she nearly made it to 90. She was predeceased by her husband Robert (Bob) Perrelli and her four McHugh siblings John, Mary (Mae McLaughlin), Eileen (Pollard), and Francis. She was the daughter of the late John and Mary (Gilmartin) McHugh. She is survived by her three children, Susan Perrelli (Christopher Freitag), Steven Perrelli (Leigh), and Sandra Vaz (John) as well as her grandchildren whom she adored - Christopher Mutti, Matthew Mutti, and Henry Psaltos. She had deep affection for her many nieces and nephews.

Family was the epicenter of Jane’s life. Her sisters Eileen and Mae were her best friends. Along with her sister-in-law Evelyn, the sisters were always hosting large family gatherings including backyard BBQs and card-playing nights. Jane enjoyed getting the whole family together and hosted large scale Thanksgiving dinners and epic backyard Italian Festivals. She cherished family weddings and always wore a fabulous hat.

Jane lived her life with ferocity and was always ready to help. Her assistance knew no bounds. She was a tenacious presence while helping family members through difficulties. Jane loved the beach, especially waves crashing during a hurricane. She enjoyed a great cocktail in the company of her sisters, especially picnic style on the rocks of Narragansett Bay.

Jane grew up on Hudson St. in Waterbury CT, graduating from Catholic High School. She met her husband Bob through friends. They took trips to Hammonasset Beach and Cape Cod. They married in 1961 and raised their family in Bunker Hill. They were avid campers, traveling throughout the Northeast - Rhode Island was their favorite destination.

When her children were well-settled in school, Jane began to volunteer at the Waterbury courts. She excelled in her advocacy role at the Adult Probation Department. She built a volunteer program and became a full-time employee working for the State of Connecticut as the Coordinator of Volunteers. She had an amazing career that spanned more than 15 years. She spent her early retirement years leading tour groups for high school musical bands and senior groups traveling extensively. She relished her full retirement in Delray Beach, Florida, where she was an avid member of the Country Manors community, serving as a board member, organizing activities, playing bingo, and hosting progressive dinners. She loved her friends in Florida. Her last years were spent at assisted living facilities where she continued to connect with wonderful people.

There will be a celebration of life to be scheduled during the summer. In lieu of flowers, please share a comment on the Neptune website.