Benjamin Zylka

1977 - 2025

Benjamin Zylka "Benji," 48, of Mt. Pleasant, PA, went to see his Lord and Savior early Easter morning, Sunday, April 20, 2025, surrounded by his family. We are sure that he was met with many Hallelujahs from the loved ones who were waiting to greet him as he entered through the gates of heaven. Benji was a godly man, father, husband, son, brother, uncle, in-law, and friend. Our hearts are broken, and our souls are mourning for him. He left a beautiful legacy with us. He loved Jesus, and it showed through everything he did, said, and touched. Benji was born in Erie, Pennsylvania, on Feb. 15, 1977, to John S. Zylka Jr. and Penny (Porterfield) Zylka. Benjamin was a 1995 graduate of Mt. Pleasant Area High School. He attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. He was currently attending Newburgh Theological Seminary to continue his studies. He was a foreman for Donegal Construction, but his true calling and passion was pastoring churches and spreading the word of God. He was the pastor at Johnston Second Brethren Church for 15 years and was currently the pastor at Masontown Brethren Church. Benij was a student and instructor at Diamond Karate in Mt. Pleasant. He started attending in 1985 under the instruction of Gene Rosky and attained the rank of master. Benji was a feared and respected competitor and a strict, loved, and caring instructor. On June 14, 2003, Benjamin married Tiffany (Bell) Zylka. They were soul mates from day one when they met at Nino's restaurant, where they worked and spent every moment they could together. Benjamin was a protector, hero, strength, wisdom, and guiding light for his three beautiful daughters, Kharisma, Khalia, and Khredance. He lived his life for God and his family and has passed on his faith and loyalty to God to his children, family, friends, and many lost souls. Benji is survived by his wife, Tiffany (Bell), and daughters, Kharisma, Khalia, and Khredance. His brother, John Zylka III (former wife, Jennifer); sisters, Jennie (Rick) Lucchetti and Bethany (Michael) Watson; in-laws, Richard and Rebecca Bell; sister-in-law, Rachael (Jason) Broadwater; and brother-in-law, Zachary (Emily) Bell. Nieces and nephews, Sarah Zylka, Luke Zylka, Jacob Lucchetti, Joey Lucchetti, Vinny Lucchetti, Sophia Watson, Domenic Watson, Jackson Broadwater, Kennedy Broadwater, and Hope Broadwater. Goddaughters Sarah Zylka and Keely Acor; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Family and friends will be received from 2 to 8 p.m., Thursday, April 24, 2025, in the BROOKS FUNERAL HOME INC., 406 E. Washington St., Mt. Pleasant, PA. Additional viewing will take place from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m., on Friday, April 25, 2025, the time of funeral services in the Masontown Brethren Church, 110 W. Church Ave., Masontown, PA 15461, with Rev. Bill Yoder officiating. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Masontown Brethren Church, c/o 225 Ridge Drive, Mt. Pleasant, PA 15666, in memory of Benjamin Zylka. To offer a condolence or remembrance, please visit www.brooksfuneralhomes.com.