Paul Glen Ely passed peacefully at the age of 76 on Thursday, October 25 2020 at Norman Regional hospital, surrounded by his immediate family. Born September 17, 1944 in Memphis, TN to Melvin Ely and Mavia Jean Hale Ely, Paul was the oldest of five siblings - Rev. Mark Ely (Martha), Ray Ely, Janet Ely and Anita Ely Powell (Steve).
Paul married the love of his life Sylvia Roye in Vicksburg, MS on December 27, 1964, and together they raised two children - Robyn Ely Castleberry (Robert) and Kevin Ely (Holly), and four grandchildren - Colton Castleberry, Connor Castleberry, Francesca Ely, and Harriet Ely. He was proud of each one of them.
Paul devoted 39 years to his career at Hancock Fabrics, first as a Store Manager, then as District Manager of Oklahoma, and then in the corporate office in Tupelo, MS as Advertising Director. Some of his co-workers became lifelong friends that he considered his second family.
In retirement back in Oklahoma, Paul threw himself into his love for genealogy, meticulously researching his family tree and serving as historian for his extended family. He loved keeping in touch with his many cousins and the annual Ely family reunion was always a highlight of his year.
Paul was deeply patriotic and was a member of several community organizations including the Jaycees and Sons of the American Revolution. He was a soft spoken, ethical man who rarely lost his temper. He was respected by his peers and admired by his family. He was kind, caring, and fair. He was a constant learner and always willing to share his knowledge, no matter if the topic was personal finance or the reproductive habits of pine trees. He loved gospel music, fishing, and a good bowl of gumbo.
Paul will be laid to rest in a small family service at IOOF Cemetery Monday, October 26th. A larger celebration of his life will be held at the next Ely family reunion. In lieu of flowers, Paul’s family asks that donations be made to his favorite charity, St Jude. Donations to a fund in his name can be made online at http://giftfunds.stjude.org/paulely.
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