John Joseph Paparello, Jr.

John Joseph Paparello, Jr., 57, of Mount Airy, passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Frederick Health Hospital after a strong battle with cancer.

Born on January 12, 1969, in Jamaica, NY, he was the son of John Joseph, Sr. and Marion Theresa Juliano Paparello. John was the husband of Helene “Ginger” Virginia Paparello, his wife of 30 years.

Surviving in addition to his wife and parents are children Joseph J. Paparello and Kathryn Paparello; siblings Joseph D. Paparello, Danielle Paparello-Newell, and Theresa Paparello-Ritta.

John was a fighter in more than one way. He practiced Modern Arnis, PTK, and Balintawak for 15 years, earning him numerous ranks including Kapatid Agalon in PTK. An artist with numerous outlets; painting miniatures, sketching and baking and decorating elaborate cakes, there was no shortage of creativity around him. He loved all things fantasy and sci-fi.

His love of fish and coral has led to numerous fish tanks, fresh and salt, over the years with an impressive variety of species. He dedicated years to volunteering his time to Girl Scouts and his church and its youth program. John touched the heart and lives of all those he interacted with.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Ignatius of Loyola, 4103 Prices Distillery Rd., Ijamsville, MD 21754. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to Mercy Health Foundation at www.mercyhealthfoundation.net.