Paul John Shehadi, Sr.

September 10, 1951 - May 7, 2025

Paul John Shehadi, Sr., beloved patriarch of his family, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2025, at the age of 73. He was a man known for his kindness, understanding, and humility, who found joy in life's simple pleasures and his loved ones.

Born on September 10, 1951, in the District of Columbia to Lawrence John Shehadi and Yvette LeSage, Paul was the second of six children. A proud graduate of the University of Maryland Global Campus, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Technical Management in 1993. He spent over three decades advancing America's space programs and satellite technologies, taking great pride in his challenging work until health reasons led to his retirement.

His distinguished career began at the Space Telescope Science Institute in 1989, going on to serve in roles supporting Department of Defense initiatives and NASA's weather satellite programs. From 2006 to 2016, he contributed to the NOAA/NASA GOES weather satellite program, where his expertise in quality control and systems engineering helped ensure reliable operation of these essential forecasting tools. His final years were spent at Telophase Corporation (2017-2025), where he continued his dedicated work with NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, developing and improving satellite systems while mentoring future engineers.

Deeply committed to his professional community, he served as Membership and Volunteer Director for the Project Management Institute Silver Spring Chapter for over 10 years (2015-2025).

A devout Catholic, Paul served as a Lector at St. Matthias Parish, where his faith was an integral part of his life.

Paul loved everything outdoors. An authority on roses and birds, he took immense pride in his beautiful rose garden. Fishing was his favorite pastime, and he proudly served as president of his fishing club for several years. His greatest joy was cruising the South River in his cabin cruiser with his son Paul John. He cherished camping trips, especially a special one with his father, and looked forward to yearly family vacations to Chincoteague. He particularly loved taking walks through the woods during camping trips, sharing his love of space with his grandchildren, and creating lasting memories in nature.

Family was everything to Paul. He had a special gift for making each of his grandchildren feel unique and loved, attending their "talent shows" in the living room with endless patience and enthusiasm. He would visit his grandchildren at every opportunity. Paul was very fond of his two beloved beagles, Molly and Winnie. A lifelong Bob Dylan fan, Paul could often be found listening to his favorite songs.

Paul was predeceased by his brother Richard Shehadi. He was survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Kathy Ann Shehadi, his children Paul John Shehadi Jr. and Heidi Thomas, his grandchildren Madeline Thomas, Alex Thomas, and Estelle Thomas, his great-grandchildren Owen and Scarlett Gavia, his sisters Diane Greenback, Theresa Staley, and Marielle Nuzback, his brother John Shehadi, 6 nephews, 6 nieces, 5 great-nephews, 5 great-nieces, and many cousins.

The family is especially grateful to Paul John Jr. for his devoted caregiving, which allowed Paul to spend his last few months at home. Paul John truly stepped up to the plate, anticipating his father's every need with love and dedication.

Paul's legacy lives on through the satellite technologies he helped perfect, the professionals he mentored, his beautiful rose garden, and most importantly, through the love and memories he created with his family.

Services: A visitation for Paul will be held Sunday, May 18, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Robert E. Evans Funeral Home, 16000 Annapolis Road, Bowie, MD 20715.

His graveside service and interment will occur Monday, May 19, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Lakemont Memorial Gardens, 900 W Central Ave, Davidsonville, MD 21035.

Paul will be laid to rest in Lakemont Memorial Gardens, 900 West Central Avenue, Davidsonville, MD 21035.