Thomas J Petrella

Thomas “Tom” Joseph Petrella, 65, a man devoted to Jesus Christ, entered eternal life on July 2, 2026, at home, surrounded by his loved ones after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on April 23, 1961, Tom grew up in Bellmawr, New Jersey, and resided in Newark, Delaware, with his wife, Stephanie. He was an active parishioner at St. Brendan the Navigator in Avalon, New Jersey, and St. John the Beloved in Wilmington, Delaware.

Tom’s extraordinary work ethic began early in life, working alongside his father and brother at their family butcher shop in South Philadelphia, Petrella’s Prime Meats. He also spent time after school at his Uncle Nick’s record shop down the street. Anyone could play a song, and Tom would know the name and artist without hesitation. Tom loved the culture and people of Philadelphia and was an avid Philly sports fan through and through. He loved his Phillies, especially attending games with his brother, Lou.

Tom was a graduate of Gloucester Catholic High School, where he played and coached baseball and football. He went on to graduate from Glassboro State / Rowan University with a degree in business. He enjoyed a long and fulfilling career in the tradeshow exhibit industry, where he made many lifelong friendships, and later joined his wife to run their family marketing business. Tom’s ability to make and maintain deep friendships his entire life was extraordinary; those blessed to be loved by him always knew it.

Tom lived his life in service to others, spending each day thinking of ways to help anyone in need. He was deeply devoted to Jesus, the church, the Oblate Sisters of St. Francis de Sales, and Mount Aviat Academy. As Tom’s walk with the Lord grew, spreading the Gospel became the most important focus of his life. He wanted to ensure his life was a true reflection of the Holy Spirit inside of him, a reflection that was undeniably evident to all who knew him.

An avid golfer, Tom loved his standing early tee times with his boys on Friday and Saturday mornings at SHGC. These men were like family to him and shared his deep love for God and family.

Tom is survived by his devoted wife, Stephanie, and their daughter, Anna Petrella Pallme (Matthew). He was affectionately known as “Papa” to his beloved granddaughter, Eloise Blake. Tom is also survived by his big brother, Louis “Lou” Petrella (Debbie) of Whippany, New Jersey, and his sister, Margaret “Meg” Skotnicki (Dan) of Sewell, New Jersey. He was the cherished uncle of George Plum (Lauren), Chris Plum (Kristi), Elizabeth Lamb (Bill), Louis Petrella (Lexi), Danielle Petrella, and Joseph Skotnicki.

He was preceded in death by his son, Thomas Petrella, Jr.; his beloved sister, Elizabeth “Liz” Plum; and his parents, Louis and Elizabeth Petrella.

A visitation will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, July 13th, at St. John the Beloved Catholic Church in Wilmington, Delaware. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the “Oblate Sisters of St. Francis de Sales” or “Mount Aviat Academy,” both located at PO Box 85, Childs, Maryland 21916-0085.

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