Clem Pepe

Clem Pepe, 62, passed peacefully in his sleep on April 27, 2018, at his weekend home in Douglas, MA.

Clem had a truly unique, kind, gentle and fun soul with an unforgettable smile.


He was the second of five sons of Geraldine (Wassel) Pepe and the late Salvatore R. Pepe.

Clem attended the Amsterdam Public schools and graduated from Wilbur H Lynch High School in 1974. He attended Fulton Montgomery College and then the University of NY in Buffalo, graduating with a degree in Theater Arts.

Clem and his husband, Larry Basille, traveled extensively, visiting Europe, South America, Egypt and Africa.Clem and Larry were prominent in the Boston Gay community through their activism and philanthropy, partnering with many organizations and individuals. They worked for the advancement of civil rights, for the development of Boston's gay youth and on behalf of people with AIDS, HIV and anyone in need.

There was a Celebration of Life in honor of Clem on Thursday, May 3rd, 2018,in Boston, MA.

Survivors include his husband, Larry Basille, his beloved Mother, Geraldine Pepe, his brothers, Ralph (Vicki) of Half Moon, NY; Paul (Kathy) of Amsterdam, NY; Steve (Nancy) of Niskayuna, NY; Chuck of Amsterdam, NY. Also many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews survive.

On Saturday May 12th at St Mary’s Church, Amsterdam NY, visiting hour starts at 11am followed immediately by a Mass at 12 noon.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Community Servings (www.servings.org) or mail to Geraldine Pepe, 110 Princeton St, Amsterdam, NY 12010.

To send online condolences to the family, visit www.rileymortuaryinc.com.