Peter Robert Picone's Obituary
Peter Robert Picone, Jr., 87, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at home on May 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Peter was a man deeply rooted in family, and tradition. A true patriarch, he lived a life centered on unwavering devotion and generosity to his beloved wife and family. He proudly displayed the Picone family coat of arms at the entrance of his home, a reflection of the pride he carried for his heritage. He lovingly kept close relationships with his family in Sicily, whom he enjoyed visiting.
Born in Lawrence, Peter was the beloved son of Pietro and Filomena (Tucci) Picone. He was raised and educated in Lawrence, attending local public schools before continuing his education at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, where he earned both Bachelor's and Master's degrees.
Peter dedicated more than 30 years of his professional life to Raytheon Technologies, where he worked as an electronic engineer and retired as a department manager. He took great pride in his work and was respected for his intelligence, dedication, and steady leadership.
A proud veteran, Peter faithfully served his country in the United States Army as a radar technician from 1957 to 1960. His service was a great source of honor throughout his life.
Peter's great passion was playing his trumpet in brass bands and drum & bugle corps beginning in junior high. He spent decades marching in parades and performing stand still solos right up until 2025. This talent was passed on to his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was actively involved with several drum and bugle corps over the years, including The Chieftains, Los Muchachos, and most recently, The Sons of Italy Drum and Bugle Corps, where he formed many cherished friendships and lasting memories. Music and camaraderie brought Peter much joy.
Known for his generous spirit, contagious laughter, and gift for storytelling, Peter had a remarkable way of making people smile. Friends and family fondly remember hearing him enthusiastically exclaim, “Bravo!” whenever something delighted him. He was a beloved neighbor in the Forest Street neighborhood of Methuen, where he lived with his family for over 30 years and formed many lifelong friendships.
Peter was predeceased by his beloved wife of 67 years, Nancy (Charest) Picone, and his cherished daughter, Maria.
He leaves behind his loving children, Michelle, Pam, Gina, and Peter III, as well as his treasured role as “Nano” to 13 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to his life.
Peter's legacy, his spirit, and his memory will live on in all who had the pleasure of knowing him, and through the lives he touched. He will be so deeply missed!
Services will be private, with burial at St. Mary’s Immaculate Conception Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Merrimack Valley Community Music School or The Honor Bear Project.
Arrangements are under the care of the Breen Memorial Funeral Home, Inc., 122 Amesbury Street, Lawrence, MA
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