Benedito Paulino

Benedito Paulino, 58, of Germantown Hills, IL and formerly of Angola, Africa, passed away October 17, 2023, at City of Hope Chicago Hospital.

He was born on May 28, 1965, in Vimbandi-Camacupa, Angola, Africa to Paulino Elanguelange and Isabel Canona. He married Lucia Dina Joao on April 17, 1999.

Surviving is his wife, Lucia Paulino; one son, Ishmael Paulino; and one daughter, Melanie Paulino all of Germantown Hills.  Also surviving is his mother, Isabel; one brother Benjamin Junjuvili; one sister, Augusta Paula Frazao and several stepbrothers and sisters.

He was preceded in death by his father and one son, Vidal Paulino.

Benedito was a joyful and loving father and husband. He gave his heart to his family, and they knew they were loved. He inspired them to be a light in the world by modeling what it means to be a man who pursued a sincere and vibrant relationship with God. Benedito was also an encourager and connector for his extended family in Angola. He drove much of the extended family communication and support as they navigated living across the ocean from one another.

Benny was a wonderful storyteller. His personal accounts of faith and resilience in the face of sometimes violent opposition during his early life in Angola inspired everyone who heard them. He recorded his personal testimony in writing and always felt compelled to share it with the world.  He was a man of fervent prayer who boldly looked to God for miraculous intervention. He never stopped seeking to grow spiritually and often spent time finding ways to expand his vibrant spiritual life.

Benny worked in the accounting department at Samaritan Ministries International in Peoria and brought light into the lives of his coworkers. He was known as passionate, devoted and fun; always ready with a humorous one-liner that made people smile.

He was a member of Northwoods Community Church in Peoria, where funeral services will be held at 6:00 pm on Thursday October 26, 2023.  Pastor Bob See will officiate.  Visitation will be held from 3-5:45 p.m. on Thursday prior to the services at the church.  Burial will be held at 10:00 am on Friday at Oakwood Cemetery in Metamora.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the family to assist with medical and final expenses.  Online condolences and tributes may be sent to the family at knappjohnsonharris.com.