Joseph J. Villani, Sr., 87, of Bethlehem Twp., passed away on June 17, 2026 at St. Luke's Hospice.
He was the husband of Eileen (Marsh). Villani. Together they celebrated 31 years of marriage.

Born in Fountain Hill, Pennsylvania, Joseph was the son of the late Antonio M. and Anna A. (Falco) Villani.

Joseph was passionate about cars, a love that began working alongside his father at the family sales and service station before proudly serving his country in the United States Army at Fort Carson, Colorado. Following his military service, he founded JJ Villani Auto Sales in Freemansburg, which he owned and operated for many years. Joseph will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his lifelong passion for automobiles, and his deep affection for animals. He was known for his wonderful sense of humor and love of telling jokes, which brought laughter to family, friends, and customers alike. Kind, generous, sensitive, and compassionate, he touched the lives of many and will be remembered for the warmth and care he showed to others. A proud Italian American, Joseph cherished his heritage and the traditions and values that shaped his life. He deeply loved his family and extended family, who were at the center of his life and a constant source of pride, joy, and strength.

He was predeceased by his son, Mark Villani; his brothers, Vito and Richard Villani; and his sisters, Antoinette "Dolly" DeFrancisco and Theresa Ruhf.

In addition to his wife, Eileen, Joseph is survived by his children: Lisa Villani of Bethlehem; Joseph Villani, Jr. (SiewSim), of York; Mario Villani (Preyia), of Bethlehem; Kathryn Ginter (Daniel), of Breinigsville; and Eric Kilichowski of Bethlehem. He will be dearly missed by his brother, Dominic Villani (Nancy); ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great joy. He also is survived by his many nieces, nephews and his former wife, Joan (Benny) Villani.

Funeral services will be held at Grace Church, 4301 Hecktown Road, Bethlehem, on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends are invited to gather at the church from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. prior to the service. Interment will follow.

Arrangements have been entrusted to JAMES FUNERAL HOME, Bethlehem. Online condolences may be offered at www.jamesfuneralhome.org.