The unexpected passing of Paul Perillo has left a deep void in both the Toms River community and the national emergency management field. As a respected leader with FERO Homeland Security, Paul’s influence was felt far beyond his job title—he was a guide, a mentor, and a source of strength in times of crisis.
Paul’s life was a testament to selfless service. He championed preparedness, advocated for coordinated recovery, and brought countless agencies together to create smarter, more responsive systems. In his leadership role in Recovery Inter-Agency Coordination, he helped communities rebuild after disasters and shaped protocols that continue to save lives.
But behind every strategic plan and emergency briefing stood a man whose heart never wavered. Paul brought empathy and humanity into spaces often ruled by urgency and stress. He believed deeply that the best emergency response starts long before the storm—with relationships, planning, and mutual respect.
A lifelong resident of Toms River, Paul never let his professional success distance him from his roots. He volunteered locally, supported veterans, and took every opportunity to mentor those just beginning careers in public service. Friends say that Paul’s greatest legacy may be the people he helped grow.
Outside of his demanding work, Paul found joy in life’s simple pleasures—sailing, sharing stories over coffee, and supporting his family. Those who knew him describe a man who could lighten any room, always ready with a warm smile and a clever joke.
His loss is being felt across multiple communities: in his family circle, among friends and neighbors, and in emergency management offices across the country. For those who knew Paul, the grief is personal—but the legacy is shared.
