The Center Moriches community lost one of its most influential educators and coaches. Donald Joseph Perrier, a Hall of Fame athlete, coach and athletic director who dedicated more than three decades to his alma mater, passed away in Sebastian, Florida, following a long illness. He was 84.
Born Dec. 2, 1941, in Manorville to Donald and Mary Perrier, he grew up in Center Moriches and became one of the school’s finest athletes. As a senior pitcher, he threw two no-hitters and won 13 games, including a memorable matchup against future Baseball Hall of Famer Carl Yastrzemski of Bridgehampton.
After graduating from Ithaca College, Perrier returned home to begin a 34-year career as a physical education and driver’s education teacher while coaching basketball, soccer, softball, baseball and bowling. His success earned Coach of the Year honors in soccer, basketball and softball, along with numerous awards recognizing his leadership and sportsmanship.
In 1978, Perrier succeeded his mentor, Howard Heckman, as athletic director, serving until his retirement in 1997. Among his many accomplishments, he transformed the boys basketball program into a championship contender, leading the Red Devils to the 1985 Suffolk Class C title, the school’s first county basketball championship in three decades.
His soccer teams compiled a remarkable 180-70-21 record over 15 seasons, capturing a Long Island Class C championship, a Suffolk title and multiple league crowns. He also guided the softball team to a Suffolk championship.
An avid golfer and fisherman, Perrier enjoyed retirement in Sebastian, where he operated a small landscaping business. He is survived by his son, Paul Perrier; daughter, Nadine Jones; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and his companion of 25 years, Nancy Wolaver.
Writer’s Note: Mr. Perrier was my coach for many years and l learned so much from him about sports and sportsmanship. Once in a baseball game when we were badly beating a team in the first inning, he signaled every batter to bunt to give them a chance to get off the field to regroup. I was on the same team as his son, Paul Perrier, a fine athlete in his own right who went on to become a successful veterinarian.