Paul Albert Ribniscky

Paul Albert Ribniscky was born Paul Albert Lindsay on March 12, 1948, in West Reading, Pennsylvania, to Naomi Ruth Lindsay. Two years later, his brother Carl Robert Lindsay was born. When Paul was nine and Carl was seven, their mother married Mike Ribniscky, who adopted both boys.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Sarah; his daughter, Michelle Ribniscky Gregan of Burlington, North Carolina; his sons, Paul Albert Ribniscky Jr. of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, and Scott Adam Ribniscky of Norfolk, Virginia; his brother, Carl Robert Ribniscky of Uniontown, Pennsylvania; and four grandchildren.

Paul and Carl spent much of their childhood exploring the mountains around Uniontown, Pennsylvania. As a teenager, Paul occasionally ventured across the West Virginia state line with friends for what he jokingly called 'a little bit of moonshine.' One such adventure led to a memorable encounter with the high school principal, after which Paul left school.

Faced with three options—the mines, the mills, or the military—Paul chose the Navy because, as he liked to say, he wanted 'to be able to take a shower every day.' It was a practical decision that suited him well. During his service, he earned his high school diploma before many of his former classmates, a fact he always enjoyed mentioning.

Paul served honorably in the United States Navy from 1966 to 1986, retiring after 20 years as a Chief Petty Officer (E-7).

In 2003, Sarah noticed Paul on a dating website and asked her brother, Navy Captain Tom, what he thought about dating a Chief Petty Officer. Tom replied, 'You don't want an admiral. The petty officers are the ones who really run the ship.' Sarah met Paul in March 2003, and just seven months later, on October 7, they were married.

Paul often said that God put him on this earth to work. He never sought titles or recognition, but approached every task with determination and integrity. Sarah deeply admired his strong work ethic.

Outside of work, Paul's greatest joy was serving as a Little League umpire for 30 years. He loved the game, the kids, and who wouldn’t hesitate to eject an overzealous parent when necessary.

In 2009, Paul and Sarah moved to Arlington, Texas. The following year, the Lord led them to Pantego Bible Church (now Central Bible Church). There they met Area Pastor Ryan Rasberry, who soon introduced them to the Boles Community Group, where they formed treasured friendships that have remained a lasting blessing.

After a prolonged illness, the Lord called Paul home on July 30, 2026. Though his passing came sooner than anyone wished, we rejoice that he is now free from pain and in the presence of his Savior.

Paul will be laid to rest with military honors at the Dallas–Fort Worth National Cemetery on August 13 at 10:30 a.m.—a fitting tribute to an honorable man who faithfully served both his country and his Lord.

A celebration of Paul's life will follow at 12:00 noon in the Connection Building, across from the main sanctuary of Central Bible Church. Lunch will be provided by the Boles-Dunn Community Group. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend.