Donald "Donnie" L. Paul

Donald “Donnie” L. Paul, 72, life-long resident of Foley, Alabama, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025, at 12:30 p.m., after a year-long battle with cancer. He was born on October 23, 1952, and was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend.

Donnie was the beloved husband of Sally Newton Paul of 43 years, and the proud father of Tammy Paul, Angie Harrison (Eric Harrison), Tyler Paul (Jennifer Paul), and son-in-law Frankie Taylor. He was the cherished grandfather of Shawn Taylor, Lee Taylor (Vy Taylor), Donald James Stewart (Brianna Sykes), Briana Stewart, Brendan Harrison (Breanna Turner), Ryan Harrison (Abby Harrison), Landon Harrison, Laurelyn Paul, Annabelle Paul, and Mason Paul, and a great-grandfather to eight wonderful great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, children, sisters Evelyn Gresham and Angie Fletcher (Scott Fletcher), sister-in-law Becky Paul and is preceded in death by his parents Sonny and Mary Jean Paul, brother Bill Paul, and brother-in-law Bruce Gresham.

Donnie’s legendary work ethic began at an early age, when as a third grader he worked as a shoe-shine boy for Mr. Buddy at the local barbershop. Just out of high school, he entered the fishing industry with Lew Childre, sweeping floors and filling orders. Through hard work and vision, he rose through the ranks to become a leader and innovator in the fishing rod and tackle industry. If this wasn’t enough, Donnie’s true passion was running Cougar Claw Treestands, which he operated for more than 30 years, up to his last days.

While his career was remarkable, Donnie will be remembered most for his kindness, generosity, and willingness to help others. He was a man who never hesitated to bend over backwards for anyone in need, and his spirit of giving touched countless lives.

Beyond work and service, Donnie loved nothing more than spending time with friends and family in “The Barn,” where he enjoyed gathering to watch Alabama football, share stories, and laugh with those he loved most.

Donnie’s legacy is one of hard work, deep love for God, Family, and Country and an unwavering commitment to helping others. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral Services for Donnie will be held in the Foley Chapel of Wolfe Bayview Funeral Home on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at 2:00pm.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to service. Interment to follow in Vernant Baptist Church Cemetery in Magnolia Springs, AL.

ARRANGEMENTS BY
WOLFE-BAYVIEW
FUNERAL HOMES
& CREMATORY, INC.
2551 S. MCKENZIE ST.
FOLEY, AL 36535
(251) 943-2391
www.wolfefuneralhomes.com