Paul William Phaire, Jr.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Paul William Phaire, Jr., age 74, of Cedar Hill, TX. Paul passed away on the evening of October 18, 2025, at the Dallas VA hospital. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on April 23, 1951, Paul lived a life defined by resilience, courage, faith, and deep love for his family, friends, and heritage.

Paul’s early life was marked by hardship and strength. The eldest of 13, Paul was often a protector and caretaker to his siblings. Even as a boy, he made sure his younger siblings had food, love, and someone to look out for them. This selfless devotion shaped the man he would become—a steady, loving presence for those he cared about.

A proud Marine veteran, Paul honorably served his country as a soldier in the Vietnam War. During his service, he was exposed to Agent Orange and, as a result, he faced and had to overcome incredible challenges with his health and his livelihood. His courage and sacrifice in the war were recognized with service medals, including the Purple Heart.

Paul’s Puerto Rican heritage was an important part of who he was. He loved sharing the flavors of his culture: the food, the music, and the language. He delighted in speaking Spanish with those he met who could speak it with him, and he especially loved the food that reminded him of home. Gathering around the table with family and friends was one of his greatest joys, and he always smiled ear to ear as he took in the sights and sounds of being surrounded by loved ones. He was so joyous he would even sing, and he loved to sing. Those moments will always be remembered with warmth and love.

Paul’s faith in Jesus Christ guided the course of his life. He met his wife Anna and was sealed to her in the Philadelphia, PA temple for time and all eternity. As a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he had a special love for the missionaries. He opened his home to them often—sharing meals, conversation, and scripture. Many missionaries came into his home to break bread with him and left never to forget him. His generosity and kindness reflected the deep faith that carried him through both triumph and hardship.

Above all else, Paul loved his family. His children ARE his proudest legacy, and his love for his grandchildren was immeasurable. It made him truly happy to visit with his family and to dote on his grandchildren. He loved each and every one of them.

Paul William Phaire, Jr. will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, fellow veterans, church community, and all who were blessed to know him. He leaves behind a loving wife, Anna Phaire, his children Paul III (Lori), Ebony, Julian, Elizabeth, and step–children Jessica (Alan), Tami, Robert, Laura (Catie), Katie (Jason), Spencer (Felicity), and Michael (Kara) and 25 beautiful grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, whom he loved: Rodney, Frederick, Lisa, Edna, Gladys, Miriam, and Caroline.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, November 3, 2025, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1019 Big Stone Gap Rd. Duncanville, TX 75137. The family will gather to receive guests beginning at 6:00 PM and the service will be held at 7:00 PM in the chapel. A Military Honors Ceremony will be held in the Dallas/Ft. Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mt. Creek Pkwy., Dallas, TX on Thursday - April 23, 2026 at 11:15 A.M.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made either to the Gary Sinise Foundation (https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/) or the Homeless Veterans Services of Dallas (https://www.northtexasgivingday.org/organization/Hvsd).