Paul Dees

Paul John Dees was called to be with the Lord on Monday, May 15, 2023, at home surrounded by his loving family.  Paul was born in Camden, Alabama on October 10th, 1926, to Authorine and Solomon Dees.

At the age of 18 Paul was drafted into the United States Army where he was stationed in Germany.  After his discharge, Paul came to Albany to attend the funeral of his brother.  Little did he know he would meet the love of his life and make Albany his home.  Paul met Iola Young while attending church at 79 Hamilton Street.  They married in 1953 and from this union they had eight children.

Paul was employed at Albany International for 37 years where he was held in high esteem for his skill, values, and work ethic.  He supplemented his income by working various part time jobs and demonstrated his entrepreneurship by owning and operating the Northern Port Supermarket with his brothers.  This was a monumental endeavor for African Americans in the sixties.  After he retired from Albany International, he assisted Deacon Coleman with his lawn care business.  Paul continued the business after the death of Deacon Coleman and worked it until he was 89 years old.

Paul described himself as a “church” man.  For him this meant living a life that honored God.  He consistently and loyally served at Wilborn Temple First Church of God and Christ by quietly taking on whatever task needed to be done.  Additionally, Paul served as a Trustee Board Member, Chairman of the Deacon Board, and Sunday School teacher.  Paul loved to sing and was a member of The Kitchenaires, the Gospel Choralaires and Men’s choirs.  

Paul enjoyed playing golf and played with the even tempered, focused and quiet confidence that he exemplified in everything he did.  He would play alone, with coworkers, and members of the church.  

Paul was a hard working, faithful, and wise man.  He loved God, his family, and his church.  He believed it didn’t cost anything to be nice; his kindness and quiet strength was an inspiration to those who knew him.

Paul is predeceased by his loving wife of 69 years, Iola; his sons, Melvin K., and Jonathan P. Dees; siblings, Tillie M. Collier, Ruth Robinson, Robert, Turner, Willie James, David, and George Dees; sister-in law, Nora Lee Dees. 

Left to cherish his memory is his brother, Pastor Solomon Dees; sister, Jerelene Dees; his loving children, Bonnie Stickney, James Small (Ida), Darlene Dees, Donna Jean Straughter (Stanley), Helen Marie Brockett, Kenneth Dees, Karen Dees, Paula Dees; Also cherishing his memory are his loving grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, and church family.

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