Paul Frederick Picconi, 75, of Boonton Township, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026 surrounded by his loving family as he joined the Lord in Heaven. He was born on March 9, 1951, to Alfonse and Lillian (nee Freiwald) Picconi.  Paul was a lifelong resident of Boonton, New Jersey. His life was defined by creativity, dedication, compassion, and an unwavering love for his family and friends. He had an extraordinary ability to find beauty, humor, and artistry in everyday moments.

Paul’s educational journey began at Our Lady of Mount Carmel School and continued at Morris Catholic High School. He went on to pursue higher education at Seton Hall University, the Fashion Institute of Technology, and William Paterson University.  He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Master’s degrees in Counseling and Fine Arts.

Paul’s commitment to learning and personal growth became the foundation of a remarkable 35-year career as an educator, where he positively influenced countless students and colleagues. He dedicated his career to helping students discover the beauty of art and the power of self-expression.  Believing every student possessed unique talents and potential, he took great pride in encouraging creativity, confidence, and independence.  Always sharing lessons of acceptance, patience, kindness, and love, those values remained with his students and colleagues long after they left his classroom. 

Paul’s curiosity and thirst for knowledge defined his remarkable ability to absorb information, connect ideas, and share what he learned with those around him.  His passion for learning led him to be chosen as a contestant on the television game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.  Although he did not win the million-dollar prize, he treasured the experience and proudly shared it with his family, friends, colleagues, and students.  One of his favorite memories was the impeccably curated episode viewing party he had planned at his school.  Although a winter storm canceled the gathering, Paul's enthusiasm and gift for bringing people together endured as everyone watched from home, cheering him on from afar.

Paul’s creativity extended far beyond the classroom and was reflected in his many artistic pursuits throughout life. He found joy in drawing, painting, throwing pottery, weaving baskets, knitting, and preparing meals that welcomed all to a seat around the table.  Through each of these passions, Paul expressed his creativity, shared his unique perspective, and built meaningful connections with people from all walks of life.  He also had a natural sense of style and became the go-to fashion advisor for family and friends, helping others express themselves with confidence.  His creativity found its way into unexpected places, especially his colleagues’ annual NCAA March Madness bracket pool. Despite his lack of interest in sports, he based his bracket picks on which head coach wore the most fashionable ties. To everyone’s surprise, Paul’s unconventional strategy led him to a victory, winning the bracket pool.

Above all, Paul’s family was the center of his world and his greatest source of happiness.  He is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Katherine “Kathi” Picconi (nee Hopkins). Together, Paul and Kathi built a life filled with love, laughter, adventure, cherished memories, and a shared passion for exploring the world.  Their 49 years together were a testament to deep and enduring love, unwavering devotion, and a partnership that will forever remain an inspiration.  He is also survived by his sons, Christopher Picconi and his wife, Lauren; and Seth Picconi and his wife, Jennie; his cherished grandchildren, Ella Jane and Thomas Paul; his brother, Thomas Picconi and his wife, Susan; his sister, Nancy Picconi; his sisters-in-law, Frances Spence and her husband, Thomas; and Jean Picconi; as well as six beloved nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Alfonse and Lillian (nee Freiwald) Picconi; his grandparents, Ubaldo and Giovannina (nee Di Luigi) Picconi; his great aunt, Catherine McCue; his brothers, David Picconi and Alfonse “Al” Picconi; and his sister-in-law, Tina Abato.

Paul's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched as a husband, father, grandfather, educator, artist, mentor, and friend. His creativity, kindness, and encouragement inspired others to believe in themselves and to find beauty in the world around them.  Affectionately known as "BaBa" to his grandchildren, he treasured every moment spent with Ella Jane and Thomas Paul, filling their lives with unconditional love. His memory will continue to bring comfort, strength, and joy to all who were blessed to know and love him.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Codey & Mackey Funeral Home of Boonton. Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 11:00 AM in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church.

In lieu of flowers, Paul requested that donations be made in his memory to either or both of the following charities: Loaves and Fishes Community Food Pantry and Franciscan Friars of the Renewal

Arrangements are provided by Codey & Mackey Funeral Home of Boonton. To share condolences and memories with the family, please visit CodeyMackeyFH.com