James Thomas Paul

James (Jim) Thomas Paul, known as JPaul by his music family, passed away on Tuesday, July 16, 2019, at home. Diagnosed with congestive heart failure over sixteen years ago, Jim led a full life; strong in his faith, devoted to his family, passionate about his music, and generous to his fellow man. He was born in Endicott, New York on October 13, 1951, son of the late Francis G. and Lillian E. Paul. Growing up in an active family of five children, Jim played golf, went snow skiing, excelled in scouting, and was a NY state high school diving champion. A successful career of 30 years at IBM led him from Endicott, NY to Boulder, Colorado (where he earned his undergraduate and MBA degrees) and finally Raleigh, North Carolina in 1992. Retiring in 2003, Jim spent time with family, played golf, cheered on his favorite football team – the Denver Broncos- every Sunday, and he never missed watching a Duke basketball game or a PGA tournament. However, his avocation was music: a country singer, guitar player, and songwriter. He produced a CD “Simple Thoughts” followed by the Betty Swain Project CD recorded in Nashville. In his final days, Jim recorded eight songs he had written. The CD “Endless Thoughts” will be released soon. He shared his love of music, encouraged others to learn to play guitar; instilled confidence to participate in meet-up groups and open mics. He gave guitars to children and taught them to play in after school programs. During a recent stay at Wake Med, he did an impromptu concert for staff and patients. Prior to his death about 150 musicians and friends honored him with a musical tribute at Saints and Scholars. Jim performed for the last time. Jim will always be remembered for his infectious smile and sense of humor- that Colorado cowboy with the handlebar mustache. He saw the good in everyone and challenged them to pursue their dreams. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Rachel Hargrave Paul. He is survived by his wife of over 25 years, Sandra; his son, Ford Paul; stepsons, Brad Manning (wife, JJ) and Tucker Beck; his everyday companion, Connor, a 7 year old miniature goldendoodle; brothers, Stephen, John, David; sister, Becky Komokowski; and lots of nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to one of the charities important to the Paul family: Alzheimers Association (act.alz.org) Eastern North Carolina Chapter 5171 Glenwood Avenue Suite 101 Raleigh, NC 27612 800-272-3900, 919-803-8285 Guitarists for Good (https://www.guitaristsforgood.org/) - There’s a “donate” button on the top right of this link. From the organizer: "Guitarists for Good is a volunteer, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization founded in Raleigh that shares its love of music by giving the gift of guitars, with a focus on those places serving the temporarily homeless in our communities. We find that the healing power of music offers peace of mind, the ability to cope with struggles, and comfort during a shelter stay. I started Guitarists for Good three years ago, in my backyard because, music and the Guitar Meetup Group RTP kept my sadness at bay when my daughter moved away (I'm sure it goes without saying that J. Paul's meet-up group did the same for many of us), so I wanted to make sure that homeless musicians could find a place to calm their sadness through music and guitar, too”

James Thomas Paul

October 13, 1951 - July 16, 2019