Michael Alan Paul

Michael Alan Paul, 39, of Rome, GA, entered eternal rest on Monday, September 2, 2024. Michael was born in Rome, Ga and raised by his paternal grandparents, Lamar and Barbara Paul. He was preceded in death by his grandparents as well as his father, David Alan Paul.

As an infant, Michael was diagnosed with Prader-Willi Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. His grandparents and his dad moved to Waynesboro, GA when he was a baby, and they all returned to Rome when he was in middle school. He attended Rome Middle School and graduated from Rome High School in 2005. He began attending Network Day Services in Rome, GA, after graduation. He loved his "apartment" at the DIGS, Inc. Lamar & Barbara Paul Home where he was able to live "independently" with staff supervision by DDM (Developmental Disabilities Ministries). 

Michael loved people. He loved to hug, smile, and give small gifts to others. He was a member of the "Just As I Am Choir", and the "Superheroes for Jesus" Sunday School Class. He participated in Awana, Camera Club, Dance Club, and Culinary Club, as well as Challenger Sports: baseball, basketball, and bowling. Many of the activities were sponsored by DIGS, Inc (Developing Independence, Growth & Security for adults with development challenges). Singing and fishing were his most favorite hobbies. He loved dressing up and singing like Elvis Presley. His absolute most favorite time of year was the Christmas season and being Santa Claus at events for family and friends. He made a yearly Naughty and Nice list, just for fun. His fishing skills were amazing, and he loved to go fishing every opportunity he had. One of his larger "catches" was a 7 lb. 2 oz. Largemouth Bass that he caught in 2011. 

He is survived by his uncle and guardian, Raymond Paul of Rome, GA, aunt Lynn Paul Owen; uncle Wayne Paul (Audrey); aunt Karen Paul Salmond (George); sisters Brandy and Ashley Smith, and numerous first and second cousins who all loved him dearly. He had friends all throughout the Floyd County community and was loved by so many.

The family will hold a visitation for family and friends on Saturday, September 7th, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the sanctuary at Shorter Avenue Baptist Church, 1410 Shorter Avenue NW, Rome, GA 30165. The funeral service will be at 4:00 p.m. immediately after visitation. Pastor Jeremy Albright will preside over the services. A graveside burial ceremony will be in South Georgia on Sunday, September 8th at 2:00 p.m. for family and close friends. Lebanon Cemetery is located at Old Plains Hwy, Plains, GA 31780. Good Shepherd Funeral Home in Rome, GA is entrusted with all arrangements.

For options in lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made in his memory to DIGS, Inc., P.O. Box 1053, Rome, GA 30162-1053, or to Shorter Avenue Baptist Church, 1410 Shorter Avenue, Rome, GA 30165.   

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