William "Billy" J. Perillo

William “Billy” J. Perillo, 67, died peacefully at home on July 12, 2026, with his family by his side, after a long illness that he fought valiantly.

Billy was born on May 17, 1959, in Wilmington, Delaware, to William and Dorothy Perillo. He graduated from Conrad High School, where he excelled in athletics.

Billy was married for 40 years to his wife, Leigh Wilson Perillo. Together, they built a life centered on family, hard work, loyalty, and love. He is survived by his wife and their three children: Jason Perillo (Kristen); Justin Perillo (Vienna); and Kelly Opdenaker (Nick).

Billy was also the proud grandfather of five extraordinary grandchildren: Lucas, Elliott, Elle, Amelia, and William. He loved them with all his heart, and they will miss him dearly.

He is also survived by his four sisters: Beth Rizzo (Michael); Patty Perillo (Lisa); Mary Ann Kim; and Dottie Perillo. Billy leaves behind many wonderful nieces, nephews, extended family members, and an abundance of lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Dorothy Perillo; his sister, Linda Hill; and his brothers, Whipper and John.

Billy was a dedicated and loyal man who led by example. He understood his role in life to be providing for and caring for his family, and he fulfilled that role richly. He was deeply involved in his children’s lives and especially enjoyed watching them compete in volleyball, football, and basketball. Over the years, he attended more games than anyone could count. His children were his greatest legacy, and he loved them beyond measure.

Billy was also a devoted worker who gave 40 years of hardworking service at the ports of Wilmington and Philadelphia. He believed in showing up, doing his job well, and taking care of the people who depended on him.

Outside of work, Billy enjoyed Sunday dinners with his family, yardwork, fishing, crabbing, boating, and barbecuing. More than anything, he enjoyed visits from his children and grandchildren. Having his family close was his favorite way to spend his time.

Billy was a man of few words, but the people who knew him never had to wonder where he stood. His loyalty, dependability, commitment to family and friends, and hardworking nature spoke for him. He showed his love through what he did—by being present, providing, helping, attending, and staying true to the people he cared about.

Billy’s presence will be missed more than words can say. His family will remember him not only for the life he lived, but for the steady, dependable, and honest way he lived it.

A visitation will be held at Mealey Funeral Homes, 2509 Limestone Road Wilmington, DE on Wednesday July 15th from 5-8 P.M. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday July 16th at 10:30 A.M. at St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church, Gilpin and Union Streets, Wilmington. In lieu of flowers, support can be directed to University of Pennsylvania’s Abramson Cancer Center, a cause close to the family’s heart. Please make checks out to: Abramson Cancer Center & Department of Radiation Oncology, 3535 Market Street, Suite 750 Philadelphia, PA 19104 or donate online at https://www.pennmedicine.org/giving/fund-for-abramson-cancer-center

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