Benjamin Alan Paradee passed away suddenly after a brief illness on Thursday, Oct. 7, 2021 in Greeneville, TN.
He was born on May 25, 1955 in Laurel, where he spent much time on Horsey’s Pond in his boat, fishing and enjoying being out on the water. Ben graduated from Laurel High School then continued his education at Chowan College in Murfreesboro, NC. After spending some time living in North Carolina, Ben returned home to the Eastern Shore. While working at Selbyville Manufacturing Company in Rehoboth Beach, he met the love of his life, Mandy. The two were married on New Year’s Eve in 1984 and settled in Millsboro where they built a beautiful life and family together. Ben was a wonderful husband and father that was devoted to caring for his family in all aspects of life. After spending his days working, he would joyously “change hats” to become the taxi for his children and all of their activities. Whether it be Boy Scouts, ball games, chaperoning field trips or school programs, Ben never missed an event for his children. Following in the footsteps of his father, Ben worked in the lumber and construction industry for many years.
Just prior to his death, Ben had been living in Tennessee working part time at Pilot, where he met some dear friends. He adapted to a life of simplicity on “his mountain” in Tennessee where he cherished watching his grandchildren run, playing his guitar, and singing to his pony.
He was preceded in death by his wife Mandy Lemaire Paradee, and his parents Paul and Eleanor Paradee.
Ben is survived by his sisters Paula (Mark) Hardt of Delaware and Sally (Andy) Irwin of Maryland; his uncle Bruce Moore of Delaware; his children Kristen Lemaire of Delaware, Paul Paradee of Arizona, Rebecca (Billy) Meyers of Tennessee, Melissa (Darren) Lesher of Pennsylvania, Michelle Paradee of Florida, Jeffrey (Hannah) Paradee of Pennsylvania; and 12 grandchildren.
He will be missed dearly by his family and many friends that have known him over the years.
A memorial service to honor and celebrate Ben’s life will be held at a later date.