Benedict A. Paparella, of Villanova, PA., passed away on April 16, 2014 at The Birches at Arbour Square in Harleysville, PA. He was 87.

Son of the late Antonio and Maria Gracia Conte Paparella, he was born in Trenton, NJ on June 24, 1926. He was a graduate of Trenton Catholic Boys High School, Class of 1944. Following his high school graduation, he enlisted in the US Navy on July 5, 1944. He served in the Navy until June of 1946. He then attended Georgetown University from 1946-1950 getting his B.S. in Biology. He then went to Catholic University where he received his Masters Degree in Philosophy. He reenlisted in the Navy serving in the Korean War from 1951-1952. He returned to Catholic University where he received his Ph.D. in Philosophy. He was a professor at Villanova University from 1955-1998 working in the Department of Philosophy. He was V.P. of Academic affairs at Gwynedd Mercy College from 1968-1974. He received an Honorary Degree from Neumann College in 2011. He was a recipient of the Lindback Award in 1965 and of the College of Nursing Medallion from Villanova University.

He was the beloved husband of Julia Paparella (nee Boland). Devoted father of Thomas E. Paparella (Susan F.). Dear grandfather of Anthony, Alexander and Shannon.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday April 25, 10:30 AM at St. Thomas of Villanova Church on The Villanova University Campus, 800 Lancaster Ave., Villanova, PA. Relatives and friends may call at the Church after 9 AM. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, West Conshohocken, PA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Julia B. Paparella Endowment Fund, Attn: College of Nursing, Villanova University, 800 E. Lancaster Ave., Villanova, PA 19085.