Paul Ray Tabor

Paul was born on April 16, 1947, in Roxton, Texas, to Hubert and Alice Tabor. He moved to Lubbock in his youth and made it his lifelong home. A proud graduate of Lubbock High School in 1966, Paul excelled in football and track, leaving a legacy of determination and teamwork.

On June 7, 1968, Paul married the love of his life, Gay Sossaman, and together they shared 57 years of marriage filled with devotion, laughter, and family.

Paul’s passions were rooted in the outdoors. He could often be found tending his garden or working in the barn, surrounded by the animals he loved. When his children were young, their preschools would take field trips to the Tabor home, where children delighted in playing with the barn animals. Known for his resourcefulness, Paul could fix anything and always seemed to have two of every tool ready for use. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather—his children and grandchildren were his greatest joy, and he never missed a chance to cheer them on or brag about their accomplishments.

Paul is survived by his wife Gay; his children Jamye Cleaveland (Shane) and Paul Rustin Tabor (Rhonda); and three beloved grandchildren, Cole Cleaveland (Brooke), Aubrey Brooke Cleaveland, and Rylie Tabor. He is also survived by his brother JW Tabor (Debby) and sisters Billie Cummings, Dorothy Aycock, Janet Lusk (Rick), Mary Williams (Eddie), and Vicki McCrary (Floyd). Special recognition is given to Tami Tabor and Greg Tabor (Stacy) for their loving support in recent months following the passing of his sister Sue. Paul leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, each touched by his kindness and humor.

A visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. on December 5, 2025, followed by a memorial service at Cooper Methodist Church, 16612 TX-493 Loop, Lubbock, Texas.

In lieu of flowers the family request that you make a donation to the charity of your choice.

Your life was a blessing,

Your memory a treasure

You are loved beyond words

And missed beyond measure.