Jennie (Santangelo) Laverty

SALEM – Mrs. Jennie (Santangelo) Laverty, 96, of Salem, beloved wife of the late Francis J. Laverty, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, August 24, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born, raised, and educated in Salem, Jennie was the daughter of the late Salvatore and Caterina (Mazzeo) Santangelo. Following high school, she attended beautician school in Boston, where she earned her professional license.

Jennie possessed a strong entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. She began her work history as a dishwasher at the former Stanley’s Restaurant in Salem before launching her career as a hairdresser at the former Webber’s Department Store. Jennie went on to own and operate her own successful hair salon for many years, building a loyal clientele and taking immense pride in making every client look and feel their best.

A woman who brought warmth and vitality to everyone she met, Jennie lived a life beautifully centered on family, faith, and heritage. She was deeply proud of her Italian ancestry, which served as a guiding foundation throughout her life. She was a dedicated member of the former St. Mary’s Italian Church and its Holy Rosary Society. She was also a member of the Sons of Italy, of which she was a treasurer for many years. Her passion for her roots sparked memorable travel adventures across Europe.

Jennie’s greatest joy was her family. She was utterly devoted to her son, Peter, who was the absolute center of her world. Family always came first for Jennie, and she was always the first to extend a helping hand to anyone in need. An exceptional cook, she delighted in hosting gatherings at her home, bringing loved ones together over her famous lasagna, pancakes, and unforgettable desserts.

Those who knew Jennie will always remember her vibrant, energetic spirit. She was an extraordinary gardener known for her remarkable green thumb, a true sun worshipper, and a lover of music who adored line dancing to Italian rhythms. A day was not complete until she watched Wheel of Fortune and The Golden Girls. She also cherished the quiet moments spent at home with her beloved cat, Heidi, and former pets, Lucky, Barnaby, and Trixie.

Jennie is survived by her beloved son, Peter Laverty; her niece, Kathleen J. Ingemi of Salem, her nephew, Stephen S. Ingemi and his wife, Sarah (Belanger) of Salem, her great nieces, Sarah Ferrara and her husband, John of Danvers and Jennifer Zuzolo and her husband, Nick of Salem, her great-grandnephews and niece, Jason, Gio, Nico and Lilly.

The family would like to give special thanks to Carla, Courtney, and Maria for their care and support.

She was predeceased by her husband, Francis J. Laverty; her sisters, Grace Santangelo, Lilly Ingemi, and Esther Santangelo; and her brother-in-law, John Ingemi.

ARRANGEMENTS: Her funeral services were privately held with burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Salem. Assisting the family with the arrangements is O’Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 84 Washington Sq., (at Salem Common) SALEM. Expressions of sympathy may be made in Jennie’s memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital - stjude.org and/or at Autism Speaks - donate.autismspeaks.org. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.