Paul Howard Donehew

Paul Howard Donehew, age 79, of Daleville, Virginia (former long-time resident of Union County, Tennessee) passed away Thursday, August 5, 2021 at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital unexpectedly.

Paul was born in Union County, Tennessee June 8, 1942 to the late Vasco and Lettie Acuff Donehew. He moved to Daleville 26 years ago with his wife and family.

Paul retired from Norfolk Southern Railway after 25+ years of service. He served as a military police officer in the Army for 2 years and was honorably discharged before moving into his job at Norfolk Southern. Paul was also very proud to be 50 yearlong member of the Burlington Masonic Lodge 763 in Knoxville, TN. Alongside his wife Paul was a Worthy patron 1995. He was a member to many other organizations such as Kazim Shriners, Grottoes, Scottish Right, and Railroad bass club.

Paul also enjoyed Gardening flowers, fruits, and vegetables – as well as fishing, but most importantly spending time with his family laughing and sharing jokes with them. He grew the “best blackberries” and made jelly with the fresh garden fruits. Paul is described by his family as fun-loving, good hearted, and mischievous.

In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by three brothers: Henry, Elmo, and Gerald Donehew; two sisters: Dorothy Cox and Betty Mynatt; and two nephews: Tony and Randy Donehew. He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years Rebecca “Becky” Donehew; son and daughter-in-law: Phillip (Angie) Reed of Knoxville, TN; daughter: Gynnell Welch of Daleville, VA; special granddaughter who is like a daughter: Angela Huff; grandchildren: Christopher and Corey Reed, Wesley and Erin Welch; and eight great-grandchildren.

A masonic graveside will be 12:30 noon, Tuesday August 10 at Dyer Cemetery, 750 Clinch Valley Road, Powder Springs, Tennessee 37848 with Chaplin David Wolfenbarger officiating.

Paul’s family suggests memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Dr. Tampa, Florida 33607.

Online condolences may be made to Paul’s family at www.rader-funeralhome.com

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