Peabody - Eugene P. Staid, 93, a lifelong resident of Peabody, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 9, 2026, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Carol A. (Gagnon) Staid with whom he shared 69 years of marriage.

Gene was born on October 5, 1932, in Peabody and was the son of the late Patrick J. and Mary E. (McDonnell) Staid. He grew up in Peabody and graduated from Peabody High School in 1950. He continued his education at Salem State College where he earned a Master's of Education degree. Before beginning his teaching career, Gene enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served our country from 1955-1957.

Gene started his lifelong career in education in Peabody and taught at the Center, Kennedy Jr. High, Seeglitz, and Kiley Brothers schools. He was well-liked by his students and well-respected by his peers. He treated all of his students equally and fairly and always challenged them to rise above their limitations and encouraged them to be the very best version of themselves. He then transitioned into administration, as he became principal of the John E. McCarthy Elementary School and the West Memorial School. He was a longtime member of the Educators Association of Massachusetts. Gene retired from the Peabody School system in 1996, after a 35-year career of educating young people. He made a positive impact on the lives of countless young people and was a mentor to many new teachers within the school system.

Gene's community involvement included his longtime presence in the Peabody Credit Union, where he served on the Board of Directors for over 40 years and also as President.

He was also a member of the A.O.H. Division 11 for over 70 years and enjoyed the company and conversations of countless friends.

He served as Treasurer and was named the Irishman of the Year in 1992 in recognition of his numerous contributions and accomplishments.

Gene enjoyed traveling with Carol and visiting places such as Ireland and Alaska, as well as spending winters in Myrtle Beach, SC. He and his family enjoyed countless summers camping at Long Lake in Maine. He was an enthusiastic sports fan of all the local Boston sports teams, especially the Celtics, and he lived an active lifestyle, even running the Boston Marathon at age 60.

More than anything else, Gene's greatest love was his family. He was a dedicated husband and father and a proud and doting grandfather and great-grandfather. He cherished time spent with his family and was very involved in the lives of his grandchildren, always supporting them in all their endeavors. He leaves behind a legacy of service to his country, his family, his community, and his city.

In addition to his wife Carol, Gene is survived by his children, Michael P. Staid and his wife, Cheryl of Essex, Daniel J. Staid and his wife Karen of Peabody, and James M. Staid and his wife, Carol of Beverly; his grandchildren Catherine Staid, Elizabeth Staid, Jessica Cuzzi and her husband, Carmen, Sean Staid and his wife Jenna, Jack Staid, Dylan Staid and his fiancé, Amanda Beecy, and Matt Staid; his great-grandchildren, Christian Cummings, Casey Cummings, Payton Cuzzi, Cam Cuzzi, Cole Cuzzi, Ellie Staid, Rosie Staid, Remi Staid, and Teddy Staid; and many nieces nephews, cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his brothers, J. Leo Staid and Robert Staid.

Family and friends are cordially invited to attend visiting hours at the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, 82 Lynn Street, Peabody, on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m., and again on Wednesday, January 14 at 10 a.m. followed by a procession to St. John the Baptist Church, Peabody, for a Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery in Salem. For online guestbook, please visit www.ccbfuneral.com.