Paul Jefferson Stanley Jr.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Andrea; his son, Lawrence (Rachel) Stanley; his grandsons, Gabriel and Asher Stanley; as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends across the United States and around the world.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Jane Frances de Chantal Catholic Church (http://stjanedechantal.org) on Tuesday, April 28th at 10:00 a.m. Immediately following, Paul will be laid to rest at the National Memorial Cemetery at Quantico in Triangle, Virginia (https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/NMCQ.asp). Following the interment at Quantico, the family will host a memorial for Paul at Whitley Park Terrace’s community room at 5:00 p.m.

Paul lived a life defined by strength, pride, resilience, and a true joy for living. Above all, he had a deep and enduring love for his wife Andrea, his son Lawrence and daughter-in-law Rachel, and his grandchildren. He showed that love is not just in words, but through action—through his work, his presence, and the way he showed up for others. Everyone who met Paul gained a lifelong friend.

Paul was born in Washington, D.C. on January 10, 1935, the son of Paul Stanley, Sr., and Ida Stanley, the third of seven children. As a young man, Paul enlisted in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, spending time abroad in Japan and the Philippines. After his service, he graduated with honors from Washington Technical Institute. A true self-made man, Paul built his life through determination and grit. A natural entrepreneur, he channeled his work ethic into diverse ventures, progressing from chauffeur, taxi driver, and DC Metro transit operator before launching his own limousine company. His entrepreneurial drive eventually led him into real estate as a broker, and into the arts as a photographer and Washington, D.C. Capitol tour guide.

He had a deep love for football, was an avid dancer, and above all, was a true cruise enthusiast. Throughout their travels, Paul and Andrea were known for their spirit and energy, often winning competitions both on and off the dance floor.

Paul’s greatest legacy is the family he cherished and the life he so purposefully built. His memory will be kept alive through the countless stories shared by the many friends and loved ones who were fortunate enough to know him.

Paul Jefferson Stanley, Jr. lived life on his own terms, answering only to the grace of God and the love of his family, until the very end. He did it “his way.”

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online at www.stjude.org/donate (select “Dedicate your gift in honor or memory of”), by mail at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or by phone at (800) 805-5856.