Gerald S. Paul, a devoted family man and proud patriot, passed away on January 7, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 21, 1938, in Columbia, Tennessee, to the late Author L. Paul and Vera Smith Paul. Gerald served his country with honor, dedicating three terms to the United States Army and bravely participating in the Cuban Missile Crisis. His commitment to serving others extended beyond the military as he held the role of Fire Captain #509 in Civil Defense, showcasing his passion for helping and rescuing people.
Retiring from General Electric, Gerald’s work ethic and dedication were unwavering throughout his life. His heart of gold shone brightly as he generously devoted his time and energy to making a positive impact on the lives of those around him. Gerald had a deep love for his family and cherished every moment spent with them.
His love for camping, especially with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, created lasting memories. Gerald enjoyed fishing, watching westerns, and passionately following Tennessee Titans Football and Tennessee Vols college football. His adoration for his loyal companion, Alvin, added warmth to his life.
Gerald’s faith played a significant role in his life, as evidenced by his active involvement in church activities. He found joy in preaching, singing, and teaching Sunday school, leaving a lasting impact on those he encountered. He attended Summertown Community Church.
Left to cherish his memory are his children, Diane (Walter) Musick and Brenda Curtis; grandchildren: Charity (Phillip) Tucker, David (Emily) Rochester, Cayce (Patrick) Sims, Candace Henderson, Christie (Jeremy) Crain, Whitney (Douglas) DeMint, Heather (Stephen Collins) Scott, and Derrick (Casey) Curtis; great-grandchildren, Gage Lovett, Kali Lovett, Haley Tucker, Landon Tucker, Selena Smith, Kaitlyn Rochester, Adilyn Rochester, Anjoel Wood, Kara Sims, Dayton (Lillian Craig) Owens, T.J. Fish, Lilyana Henderson, Joshua Parham, Braden Curtis, Camden Crain, Cali Crain, Macie Brooks, Nevaeh DeMint, and Kayla Collins; and great-great-grandchild, Paislee Tohn.
Gerald is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce May Paul; daughter, Sandra Scott; son-in-law, Tony Curtis; and all of his siblings.
Pallbearers, carrying Gerald on his final journey, include Gage Lovett, Dayton Owens, T.J. Fish, Anjoel Wood, Landon Tucker, and Phillip Tucker. Honorary pallbearers, paying tribute to his memory, include Camden Crain, David Rochester, Patrick Sims, Danny Chalk, Walter Musick, Jeremy Crain, Rean Henderson, and all of his nieces and nephew, Rez Jones, and Jack Scott.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on at WIlliams Funeral Home in Mt. Pleasant, Wednesday, January 10, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at 2:00 PM, with Pastor Terry Curtis officiating; public visitation will begin at 11:00 AM. The final resting place for Mr. Gerald S. Paul will be Arlington Cemetery, where Military Honors will be rendered and he will be laid to rest with the honor and dignity befitting a man of his caliber.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Caris Healthcare for their compassionate care and support.
The care of Mr. Gerald S. Paul and his family has been entrusted to the staff of Williams Funeral Home.
