Peter Kageleiry, Sr., 91, of Derry, NH, passed away Sunday March 22, 2026 with his children by his side. He was born February 1, 1935 in Dover, NH. Peter was the son of the late Charles and Diamond (Bograkos) Kageleiry. His parents were both born in Greece – Peter grew up speaking mostly Greek until he attended school. He was the second youngest of nine brothers and sisters.
Peter was a lifelong educator. After serving in the U.S. Army in France and Austria from 1954-1956, he attended Keene State College where he met his late wife, Jane (Ross). He later obtained two advanced degrees from Boston University (M.Ed. in School Administration) and the University of New Hampshire (M.Ed. in Counseling and Reading). He retired from education in 1997 after nearly four decades as an elementary school teacher, counselor, and principal in Nashua, Auburn, Newton, and Salem, NH. Peter was a compassionate leader and had a positive impact on the lives of thousands of young people.
Peter was an active volunteer in his adopted hometown of Derry. He served as a Director and President of the Boys Club of Greater Derry, Inc. and as a Commissioner of the Derry Housing and Redevelopment Authority. He also served on the Town Advisory Committee to Pinkerton Academy. Peter maintained his ties to Dover and was a lifetime member of the Dover Elks. He combined his love of sports and teaching while coaching youth basketball, flag football, baseball, and softball. Peter was a loving and involved dad to his children. In addition to his career in education and his service to his community, he enjoyed family summer camping trips to every region of the country. Peter lived a full life and set an example for all to emulate.
After retiring from education, Peter and Jane devoted their time to their grandchildren and local friends. They wintered in Okeechobee, Florida where they developed a whole new group of friends. Their happy hours were very popular. Peter and Jane continued to travel the world including visits to their son’s military family in Italy and Germany. They loved cruising with their daughter’s family and nieces and nephews.
Peter is survived by his daughter, Diana Jane Kelleher and her husband John of Derry; his son, Peter Kageleiry, Jr. and his wife Margaret of Williamsburg, VA; five grandchildren, Ashlie Jane Shea and her husband Brian, Zachary Kelleher, Oliver Kageleiry, Charles Kageleiry, and Mia Kageleiry; two great grandchildren, Riley Jane Shea and Connor Shea; his brother Gregory Kageleiry; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Following cremation, Peter will be laid to rest next to Jane in the Forest Hill Cemetery in East Derry. The family will hold a private burial service on the morning of May 30. The family will host a celebration of Peter’s life at his daughter’s home in Derry. All are welcome to attend the celebration of life beginning at 11:30am on May 30.