Paul Phillip Meigs, a loving husband, father, grandfather, veteran, educator, and community
leader, passed away on May 4, 2023, at the age of 80. Paul was born on October 5, 1942, in
Bibb County, Alabama, to V. F. Meigs and Mae Meigs and was the youngest of 3 children He
graduated from Bibb County High School in Brent, AL.
After graduating from high school, Paul joined the Alabama National Guard and continued his
education at the University of Montevallo, where he earned a degree in Biology/Physical
Education. He would later go on to earn his master’s degree in Education Administration from
Troy University of Montgomery and an Education Specialist Degree from Auburn University of
Montgomery. Paul proudly served in the National Guard for 40 years where he reached the rank
of Sergeant Major. Outside of the National Guard, he dedicated his life to the field of education,
serving as a teacher, coach, administrator, and principal for over 32 years: 21 years working in
the Autauga County school system, 10 years with the State Department of Education and 1 year
at Guntersville High School. He had a great love for high school athletics and the Auburn Tigers.
War Eagle!
Paul was a devoted member of Guntersville First Methodist Church and the Cannon Sunday
School Class, where he worshiped for many years. He found great joy in his faith and lived his
life with a deep commitment to serving others.
Paul is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Barbara, his children Joey Meigs (Shonda) of
Dothan, AL, Kathy Merkl (Tim) of Prattville, AL, Patty Richmond (Chase) of Cleveland, TN, and
his sister Margaret Payne of Tuscaloosa, AL. He was a proud grandfather to his seven
grandchildren, Emily Sellers, Brannon Meigs, Emelia, Sara Kathryn, Jack, Connor & Cary Gray
Merkl.
He was preceded in death by his parents, V.F. Meigs and Mae Meigs, and his brother, Jimmy
Meigs.
A celebration of Pauls life will be held on May 13th at 2:00 pm at Guntersville First Methodist
Church. He will be buried at the Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo, AL at a later date.
Pauls memory will live on through the countless lives he touched. His legacy of service,
dedication, and love will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to know him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Guntersville First Methodist
Church in memory of Paul.
