“I have found that it is the small everyday deed of ordinary folks that keep the darkness at bay. Small acts of kindness and love.” – Tolkien, The Hobbit.
Paul Searle, 70, of Lexington, Ohio passed away peacefully Sunday, January 5, 2025 at Lexington Court Care Center.
He was born on December 20, 1954 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania to the late Ray and Viola (Schultz) Searle. He graduated from William A. Wirt High School in Gary, Indiana, and went on to obtain his Associates degree as a substance abuse counselor.
For many years Paul worked as a substance abuse counselor at the Wabash Valley Correctional facility in Carlisle, Indiana, where he helped countless people through their struggles. The last 20 years of his life were spent working at Indiana University as a maintenance manager.
In his spare time Paul enjoyed spending time fresh water fishing, tending to his fish tanks, and watching his favorite shows- NCIS and The Rachel Maddow Show- all while catering to his sweet tooth and fast food infatuation. Above all else though, he loved spending time with his family. Paul was immeasurably proud of his daughter Heather and his grandsons and never missed a chance to brag about them. He was a gentle giant with the ability to make everyone around him laugh, and he will be missed by everyone who knew him.
He is survived by his daughter Heather Stewart, grandsons Emerson, Hemingway, Huxley, and Tolkien Stewart-Modic, sisters Nancy Tumey, whom he was very close with, and Judy (Butch) Feldt, sister-in-law Elizabeth Searle, as well as many nephews, and extended family members.
In addition to his parents, Paul is preceded in death by his brother Jack Searle and brother-in-law Ken Tumey.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful staff at Lexington Court Care for their excellent care of Paul.
Paul’s family will be celebrating his life privately.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to care for Paul’s family and encourage you to share a fond memory or message of condolence on his obituary page at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Homes, Lexington Avenue Chapel
Website: www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com