Ray Don Paul

Ray Don Paul, 73 of Higginsville, MO passed away on Thursday June 8, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 6, 1949 in Warrensburg, MO, to the late Oscar G. Paul and the late Ruby A. (Moehlman) Paul. Surviving are his wife, Shirley of the home; two daughters, Susan (Derek) Augustine of Ocean Springs, MS and Julie (Justin) Boehmer of Alma, MO; five grandchildren, Kayla, Gracie, and Adam Augustine, Ethan and Eli Boehmer; one brother, Larry (Mikelette) Paul of Independence, MO, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and half-brother, Wayne Paul. Ray Don was baptized in Christ at Bethel United Church of Christ in Concordia, MO on November 6, 1949 and was confirmed April 7, 1963. He was a graduate of Concordia High School and then attended Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg, MO. Ray Don enlisted in the United States Army in 1969 and proudly served his country playing the trumpet in the military band. He also found it a privilege and honor to be a bugler playing Taps for his fallen brothers. He served as an active member of the American Legion Post 223 participating in the Honor Guard in Higginsville throughout his life. He married Shirley (Dierking) Paul on July 24, 1971 and they spent 52 wonderful years together. He cherished time spent with his wife Shirley, daughters Susan and Julie and their families, supporting them no matter what was happening in their lives or where they were. Ray Don worked for Associated Wholesale Grocers for 30 years as a truck driver, and retired at age 53. He also had a love for woodworking, fishing and enjoyed the outdoors. He was a man that knew his priorities by putting God and his family at the center of all his decisions. He was an active member of Salem United Church of Christ in Higginsville and served in many capacities. This firm foundation in God led to a lifetime commitment of serving others. This included being a member of the Lunarnauts, Sunday school teacher, Youth on Mission chaperone, mentor to confirmands, an Elder, President of the Church Council, as well as serving on various other committees. Ray Don was humble, kind and generous. He was always reaching out and touching the lives of others. He saw value in everyone he met. His family has fond memories of learning these lessons of generosity, kindness and love. He was a hilarious man who loved to laugh, make others laugh and have fun. He was an absolute treasure and will be remembered for sharing these gifts. He will forever be missed. The family will receive friends and relatives from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Thursday, June 15, 2023, at Salem United Church of Christ, 1500 N. Main St. Higginsville, Missouri. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, June 16, 2023 at Salem United Church of Christ with Rev. Andy Mockridge and Willie Harlow officiating. Burial with military honors will follow in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville. Memorial contributions may be made out to Salem U.C.C. Youth on Mission or the Missouri Veterans Cemetery Assistance League in his memory.

Ray Don Paul

October 6, 1949 - June 8, 2023