Paul Earl Tinney

April 24, 1941 – May 6, 2025

Paul Earl Tinney, age 84, passed away peacefully at home on May 6, 2025, surrounded by the family he cherished and who cherished him in return. Born on April 24, 1941, in Atlanta, Georgia, Paul was the beloved son of James Seaborn Tinney and Flossie Gravitt Tinney. He was raised in Bolton, Georgia, where he laid the foundation for a life defined by deep roots, unwavering loyalty, and steadfast love.

Paul met the love of his life, Marilyn Mullins, in early childhood. Their bond, forged in friendship, blossomed into a love story that began when they started dating at age 16 and led to their marriage on November 29, 1958. For the next 66 years, they shared a life filled with devotion, laughter, adventure, and grace. To Marilyn, he was lovingly known as “Doll,” a term as unique and enduring as their relationship.

In his early years, Paul had a passion for speed and the thrill of the outdoors. He raced dirt track stock cars, motorcycles, and dune buggies. He enjoyed golfing, camping, boating, hunting, and fishing—any activity that allowed him to be outside and alive in the moment. In later years, his hands remained busy in his woodshop, where he crafted treasured keepsakes for his loved ones—each piece a symbol of his creativity, generosity, and love.

Paul was a dedicated and hardworking man. He worked in and partnered with several construction businesses over the years and co-owned a gas station in Atlanta with his brother-in-law and nephew. Yet, no matter how busy he was, family always came first. He never missed a school play, a sporting event, or a moment to show up for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He didn’t just attend—he was present in the way that mattered most.

He is preceded in death by his siblings Johnny, Forest, and Evelyn, and his half-siblings George Priest, Jim Tinney, Martha Tinney Harper, and Lois Tinney Edwards.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Marilyn Mullins Tinney; his loving sister, Mary Tinney Cannon, and her husband Roy Lee Cannon; his children, Edward Tinney (wife Leigh), Steven Tinney (wife Janet), and Tonya Tinney Deal (husband Keith).

Paul was the proud grandfather of nine: CJ Tinney (wife Amber), Kimmie Tinney Anders (husband Marshal), Dustin Tinney (wife Elizabeth), Travis Tinney (wife Katie), Cody Deal (Erika), Ashleigh Tinney Loccisano (husband Vinny), Hunter Deal, Tara Deal, and Bailey Deal. He was the adored great-grandfather of Emerson Grace Tinney, Tucker Anders, Barrett Tinney, Sawyer Anders, Ryman Tinney, Anna Leigh Anders, Avery Anders, and Rhett Tinney.

Known to many as “Uncle Paul”, “Grandad,” or “Gdad”, Paul gave of himself endlessly. He was generous with his time, quick to lend a hand, and always placed the needs of others before his own. His humility, kindness, and selflessness were the hallmarks of a life well lived. Paul never really distinguished between friends and family, if you were part of Paul’s life, you were Family.

A service honoring Paul's life will be held at Georgia Memorial Park Funeral Home. Visitation will take place from 1:00–3:00 p.m., followed by a Chapel Service at 3:00 p.m., and burial immediately after.

The Bible describes a good man as someone who acts justly, loves mercy, and walks humbly with God. Paul Earl Tinney was a good man.