More than 50 priests from around the Archdiocese of New York were in Mount Kisco Friday to attend the funeral of Father Ralph Villani, the former pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Father Villani, who died last week, was last stationed at Saint Joseph's Church in New Rochelle.

Cardinal Edward Egan was in attendance and described Villani?s dedication to the church and the community. ?He loved things Catholic. He loved things New York, and he loved things Mount Kisco,? Cardinal Egan said of Villani in the eulogy.

Villani received his training in both Rome and Westchester. During his 39 years as a priest, Father Villani was also on the faculty of two Catholic high schools and served in Bronx parishes.

Father Villani died at the age of 64 following a lengthy illness. He is survived by his brother and his brother?s family.

Father Villani was buried at Saint Raymond's Cemetery in the Bronx.