Born on June 13, 1946 in Boston, MA, Kenneth G. “For Goodness” Perkins built a life defined by hard work, devotion, and integrity. He proudly served his country in Vietnam with the US Air Force, carrying home a discipline and courage forged in wartime, and a lifelong commitment to those important to him. That sense of duty extended naturally into his roles as a husband, father, and caregiver, where he led with quiet strength, deep love, and a humor that could ease the toughest day.
A devoted member of St. Mark the Evangelist Church in Londonderry, he gave his time freely. In the community, he was known as a friend to all, someone who remembered your name, asked how you were doing, and genuinely cared about the answer.
No one who met Ken could escape his warmth and quick wit. He was an avid Boston sports fan and lover of the game of golf. His happy place was on a golf course and when he couldn’t swing his club, he enjoyed quiet Sundays watching the PGA tour.
For countless young people, he was “Coach”—a mentor who believed in fun, teamwork, and doing things the right way. Whether on the field, the court, or in everyday life, his lessons stretched far beyond sports. Many still credit him for shaping who they became.
He was predeceased by his high school sweetheart, Mary L Perkins (Veino), and two brothers, Edward Perkins of Vernon, CT and Donald Perkins of Marshfield, MA. He is survived by his loving wife, Penelope Perkins of Londonderry and a brother, Gregory Perkins of Long Beach, CA, as well as four children and eight grandchildren. He leaves behind James & Rebecca Perkins of Nashua, NH, Michael and Jordane Perkins of Hopkinton, MA, Jeffrey Perkins of Littleton, NH and Angela & Jason Reese of Londonderry, NH. Additionally, his grandchildren Haley, Charlie, Riley, Zoe, Finley and Hudson Perkins, Ben and Ash Reese, and a legacy of stories, laughter, and lives touched by his kindness and leadership. His absence will be deeply felt, but his influence will continue for generations. His children would like to honor his dance partner for the last twenty-three years and thank her for making a lifetime of memories and giving him the future he deserved…it was damn near perfect!!
Following cremation, calling hours will be held Friday, November 21, 2025 from 4 – 7pm at Peabody Funeral Homes & Crematorium, 290 Mammoth Rd., Londonderry. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday at St. Mark the Evangelist at 10:30 am. Family, friends, and all who knew him are welcome to gather, remember, and honor the remarkable man he was. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the American Cancer Society or to the American Legion.