Jena Perrone, 42, Rights Coordinator

From WGBH

With deep sadness, WGBH Enterprises shares the news that longtime colleague Jena Perrone passed away last week after a brave battle with brain cancer. She was 42.

Jena joined WGBH Enterprises in 2005 as Rights Coordinator. Her commitment and dedication were recognized over the years, most recently with a promotion to Rights and Licensing Manager. “With her work on talent renewals, permissions, and review of production shut-downs, Jena collaborated with many departments across the Foundation,” says Director of Rights and Licensing Jennifer Cohen. “She was smart, funny, and really enjoyed this unique work.

This is truly a heartbreaking loss for many, including her colleagues at PBSd. Services were held at Cota Funeral Home (335 Park St, North Reading) on Sat, 7/13, from 1 to 4pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider funding a music or film project on Kickstarter. Following the service, guests were invited to celebrate Jena’s life at the 1st annual “JENAFEST”.

From the Wilmington Apple

Jena Perrone Cormio, 42, of Wilmington, passed away at home on Wednesday July 3, 2019 surrounded by her loving family – husband Michael, mother Peggy, sister Victoria, and Michael’s parents Tina & Bob. Jena was born in Southampton, NY on May 22, 1977 to Patrick and Peggy Perrone. Her family includes: sisters Victoria & Michelle, niece Piper, and brothers in law Marc, John Paul, and Chris. Jena leaves behind her beloved ‘fur-babies’ Grayson (the puppy) and Fergus, Duke of Wilmington (the kitty). She labored over the love and care of her furbabies.

Jena suffered an idyllic childhood on the east end of Long Island camping, playing violin, being a Girl Scout and growing into that funky, cool girl who attended Bentley College in Waltham, MA and never looked back. Jena’s early years are marred by an unfortunate “bowl” haircut that left her traumatized and crying throughout her formative years. Jena enjoyed sour garlic pickles and killing those around her with her deadly silent farts–”better out than in!” A prolific writer, Jena composed an “Ode to Diarrhea” which she regaled her kindergarten class with on the first show & tell day. Sister Mary Patrick called home to my mother’s dismay regarding “appropriate” themes for Jena’s sharing in class.

Jena loved to travel–Hawaii is a favorite spot. Jena expressed her creativity through drawing, singing, playing violin and ukulele, and master sculpting forest scenes in Play-doh. Jena’s photography showcased a keen eye. Jena had eclectic musical tastes and she regularly performed karaoke at her home–her set favorites included “White Rabbit” and “Stealing Away”. Likely, Jena’s best day was August 18, 2013 when she wed Michael. Michael is her best friend and supporter and their carnival themed wedding celebration still rates as a fan favorite with friends and family.

Jena’s villain in this life is that b*tch “Rachel” (aka Brain Tumor). “Rachel” stole her energy but not her warrior spirit. She fought “Rachel” with everything she had and Jena remained her witty, warm, practical, and occasionally demanding self to the end. She went out singing to us and she wouldn’t have had it any other way. It was an acoustic performance, no microphone this time. She’s now looking down upon us and cackling with mischief as she sits with her father and younger sister judging us with her vibrant, sharp wit and humor.