Robert J. Field

Born June 23, 1926, in Salem, Massachusetts, he was the son of Albert and Mary (McMahon) Field. A graduate of St. James Grammar School and Salem High School, he went on to serve his country during World War II as a Seaman First Class in the United States Navy.

Following his military service, Mr. Field began what would become a lifetime of public service. He spent 40 years working for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, including serving as a staff advisor for the Department of Community Affairs, before retiring in 1987. Retirement, however, didn't suit him for long. He went on to work for several more years at Murphy Funeral Home, remaining active well into the next chapter of his life.

He had a deep commitment to the city of Salem. Over the years, he served as a Ward 5 City Councilor, President of the Salem City Council and Acting Mayor of the City. He also served on the Licensing Board and the Board of Trustees at Shaughnessy-Kaplan Rehabilitation Hospital and was involved with the American Legion, AARP, the Council on Aging and the Massachusetts Retirees Association.

But among all the titles he held during his 100 years, the ones that mattered most were the simplest: husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

He shared an extraordinary 75 years of marriage with his wife, Claire (Lavoie) Field. Together they built a family that grew across generations. He is survived by Claire and their five children: Richard Field and his companion Kathy; Carol Alvino; Janet Watkins; Kathy Marino and her husband, Paul; and Jacqueline Field and her husband, John Swenbeck.

He is also survived by his nine grandchildren, Shannon, Derek, Shane, Erin, Paula, Tommy, Julie, Jason and Stephen; and 22 great-grandchildren. He also leaves his sisters-in-law, Paula Field and Jackie Field, along with several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his four brothers, Albert, Francis, Paul and Roger.

Even as he reached 100, that spirit remained. At his 100th birthday celebration, he greeted guests with handshakes, conversation and laughter – a fitting celebration for someone whose life had touched so many.

For the past 2 years, he made his home at Care One in Peabody, where he was surrounded by kindness and received wonderful care. His family is deeply grateful to the staff who cared for him and became part of his life during those years.

Mr. Field’s visiting hours will be held at the Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal St, Salem on Friday, September 4, 2026 from 11 am to 1 pm with a funeral service starting at 1 pm. Following services, burial will be held at St. Mary Cemetery, Salem. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.