Jack Fred Paul

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Jack F. Paul, a man renowned for his profound faith, ingenuity, and deep love for his family. Jack was Born in Amarillo, Texas, in 1935, along with his twin brother Jim Paul.

Jack was a devoted husband to his wife of seven decades, Mary Brice Paul, whom he married in 1955. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised two children, Jeana and Jonathan.

A proud veteran, Jack served his country as a Captain in the United States Air Force from 1958 to 1961, with service on Okinawa and at Perrin AFB, Texas.

Jack’s academic journey took him to East Texas State University, Midwestern University, Austin College, and North Texas State University; earning a B.S. degree, an M.A. degree, and completing coursework for a Ph.D. along the way. This passion for knowledge extended into his professional life, where he dedicated himself to teaching. He taught Bible courses at North Texas State University and Texas Tech University.

Jack's commitment to his faith was evident throughout his life. He served as a Youth Minister for the West Irwin Church of Christ in Tyler, Texas; and later as an Educational Youth Minister for the Wood Street Church of Christ in Sherman, Texas. He also served as minister for the Trinity Heights Church of Christ in Dallas, Texas; Overland Park Church of Christ in Kansas City, Kansas; and Broadway Church of Christ in Tyler, Texas; leaving a lasting impact on each congregation through his guidance and dedication.

A gifted motivational speaker, Jack touched countless lives with his ability to inspire and uplift audiences, sharing messages of hope, perseverance, and faith wherever he went. His speaking career took him to far corners of the globe, lecturing in England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Japan, China, Canada, Spain, and Ghana. Complimenting his gifts as a speaker, Jack was also a talented musician who directed choirs, led singing for congregations, and played piano for gatherings and events.

In 1978, Jack entered the business world and became the owner and President of Bantam Hoist Company, a crane manufacturer. Later, as founder of Jack F. Paul Real Estate, LLC, he built and managed over 30 commercial buildings across East Texas, significantly contributing to the region’s growth and development.

Jack leaves behind a remarkable legacy of faith, intellectual curiosity, and entrepreneurial spirit. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Brice Paul; his children, Jeana Elizabeth Paul-Ureña (spouse Juan Carlos Ureña) and Jonathan Alex Paul (partner Angela Lafin); four cherished grandchildren, Bryan Tarpley (spouse Kathy Torabi), Margaux Paul, Sydney Paul, and Jeremy Paul; two step-grandchildren, Pablo Ureña (spouse Christine Coll) and Esteban Ureña (spouse Linda Mota); one great-grandchild, Jack Tarpley (mother Eralda Lameborshi); and three great-step-grandchildren, Damián Ureña, Pia Ureña, and Natalia Ureña-Coll. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Martha Gillespie and Sue Paul, and his brother-in-law Gene Brice. Jack is preceded in death by his infant son David, his parents L.L. Paul and Elvie Buckner, and his siblings George, Virginia, Betty Walters, Jim, Robert, and his sister Jean Rutherford.

He was a dedicated minister, respected educator, proud veteran, successful businessman, gifted motivational speaker, and most importantly, a loving husband and father. His contributions to his community and his unwavering devotion to his family and faith will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Graveside Service will be held at 2:00 pm on June 9, 2026, at Cathedral In The Pines Memorial Garden, 7825 S Broadway Ave, Tyler, TX 75703, US.