Paul Revere Emerson's Obituary
Decatur-Paul Revere Emerson, 90 of Decatur, passed away at 3:55 a.m. Friday, December 11, 2009 at Heartland of Decatur with his family by his side.
Per his wishes cremation rites will be accorded. Services to celebrate Paul’s life will be held in the spring of 2010 at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home with the Flight Home Ceremony to conclude the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army Decatur, Illinois or the Decatur YMCA. Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home is assisting the family with these arrangements. Online condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
Paul was born February 4, 1919 in Cambria, Illinois the son of Arthur and Florence (Winters) Emerson. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. Sgt. Paul Emerson received the Good Conduct Medal while serving with the 372nd AAF Bomber Squadron in the South Pacific Theatre in W.W. II. He enlisted March 10, 1942 and was honorably discharged October 26, 1945. He earned a teaching degree from Southern Illinois University and a masters degree from the University of Illinois on August 16, 1954. Paul taught school in Mt. Vernon, Edinburgh, Argenta-Oreana, and Decatur public schools, Centennial and Johns Hill. For nearly twenty six years Paul crop adjusted during summer vacations. He was a member of the Golden K Kiwanis Club in Decatur, proud to be a Master Mason for fifty-six years with Stephen Decatur #979, and was affiliated for many years with Prairie Avenue Christian Church and most recently with Mound Road Christian Church. He volunteered for fourteen years at Decatur Memorial Hospital. Paul loved square dancing with his wife and their friends in the Decatur Promenaders. He married Belleville, Illinois resident Lenora Carr on May 4, 1946 in Geneva, Illinois. She preceded him in death December 5, 2004.
He leaves behind nephews; Bruce Wright of California and Dean Hardcastle of Arizona, nieces; Jane Emerson of Arizona, Elizabeth Hardcastle of Decatur, Dianna Carr Bevil and Amelia Carr of Colorado, six great-nephews, two great-nieces, and first cousin Bill Emerson of Florida.
So many caregivers gave their hearts and loving efforts on Paul’s behalf. We so appreciated Dawn and Londra for their fine nursing skills and friendships, Rose for being a wonderfully attentive CNA and loving caregiver, Sally for always keeping Paul’s mind active and creative, and Pastor Sam Baum for tending Paul’s spiritual needs. We are most grateful for the fine staff at Manor Care/Heartland Nursing Facility and Dr. Kahn for his knowledge and kind considerations. Thanks to Barb and the Audible staff.
Paul was the consummate teacher... he spoke with great authority and clarity. He loved singing the old hymns with the church choirs and his faith never faltered. Paul loved studying history and in his later years, he recalled so many exciting times... he brought history to life. He was a ‘charmer’!
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