Paul G McClellan

Paul G. McClellan
1939-2025

Paul McClellan passed away peacefully at home, holding his wife’s hand, surrounded by his loving family. He is preceded in death by his father Reverend James E. McClellan, mother Erma McClellan and Nephew Joseph K. Moore.

Paul leaves behind a legacy of curiosity, creativity, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. A dedicated son, brother, uncle, husband, father, and grandfather, Paul took immense pride in the accomplishments of his family, celebrating their lives with the same thoughtful attention and humor that defined his own.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Joy McClellan; his children Gary (Michelle) McClellan, Sharron (Chris) Camaratta, Glennis McClellan, Patrick (Hyunju) McClellan, and Heather (John) Bright; and his grandchildren Tyson, Joseph, Lauren, Cameron, Sean, Ethan and Noah. He is also survived by his siblings James (Antonio) McClellan and Karen (James) Moore and nephew James (Amy) Moore.

Paul was the son of Reverend James E. McClellan, a Methodist minister and former military (WW2) Chaplin, and Erma McClellan, an elementary school teacher. Though raised in a deeply religious household, Paul was a natural questioner. His upbringing led him to think critically about religion through the lens of history, which led him to the Unitarian faith. He inherited something lasting from his upbringing: a strong moral compass, a love of learning, and a deep commitment to family. Paul was loving, compassionate, kind and quick to forgive others without judgement.

As a young man, Paul joined the Airforce, following in his father’s and brother Jim’s footsteps, which is where he met his wife Joy. The newlywed’s time in the military abroad ignited a lifelong love of travel.

Paul had a great sense of humor and a storyteller’s gift—he could make anyone laugh and everyone listen. A GC and true inventor at heart, Paul held several patents, including one for the popular Goof Off Stain Remover, along with many others that helped solve everyday home repair challenges.
After retiring early, Paul turned his focus to home improvement, tackling ambitious projects for himself and his loved ones. From building decks, additions to refinishing floors, Paul wasn’t happy unless he was in the midst of a personal construction project or volunteering to build houses for Habitat for Humanity.

A lifelong learner, Paul was a passionate reader who passed down his love of books and curiosity to his children. He preferred science fiction and history, and had perfect recall for trivia. As a young father, he loved to play cards and games with his children. Games like Trivial Pursuit, Scrabble and Poker were a Sunday afternoon tradition.
Paul was also interested in genealogy, a subject that led him on journeys to Ireland and Scotland to uncover his family's roots and tartan —long before the days of online ancestry tools. His tireless research and sense of connection to the past helped anchor the family in its heritage.

Above all, Paul will be remembered for his humor, compassion, his sharp mind, and his deep, steady love for his family. He lived with integrity, thought deeply, and loved fiercely. His absence is felt profoundly—but his presence, his stories, and his influence will live on in all who knew him. His presence was a gift, and he will be missed more than words can express. 

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The family wishes to thank the Westside Unitarian Universalist church for hosting Paul’s celebration of life services. www.WestsideUU.org