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PAUL BRINLEY Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for PAUL BRINLEY
Sponsored by April Dove Brinley.
Robin Montanez (Ripperger)
February 20, 2025
Paul was a wonderful classmate from Andes Ny. We were the class of 1980. Paul always we make me laugh and always knew when I was down. We competed with each other in 6th grade reading contests. He loved reading as much as me. I was so saddened to hear of his passing. RIP Paul you gave so much to all and you definitely made my life better being a part of it.
Angela Wolfson
January 14, 2024
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
July 23, 2018
You are crazy in my head today....But always in a good way..:)
Angela
March 30, 2018
Thinking of you today, Paulie. Hoping you found the peace you deserved.
Miss Estedabadi Paul's 4th and 5th-grade music teacher
March 29, 2018
I was a beginning music teacher at northeast elementary in the small town of northeast,md. Paul was one of my favorite students. He was a beginning clarinet player and lived his instrument. It always amazed me as to what a quick learner he was. I loved his very positive personality and how respectful,helpful,friendly and smart he was all the time. There was something very magical about him. His infectious smile and great personality and his gift for music was so awesome. I knew I could always count on him when it came time for mid year and end- of -year concert because he was right there along side of me arranging the chairs, band stands, and lining up the kids to make sure everything was in order and flawless. Over the years l have thought of my many students but Paul has always been one that stands out the most. Today I am very sad to know of his untimely passing.
November 2, 2016
We just found out today through a Google search, that Paul passed away. We knew him from Houston, and considered him a good friend in 1996-1998. He was one of the first people we met there, when we relocated from California. Sadly, in 1998, we moved to New York and eventually lost touch with him.He was always funny and warm. My husband and I were dating at the time, and Paul always insisted that we MUST get married! I am sure he'd be happy to know that 18th wedding anniversary is coming up. Rest in peace, friend!!
August 19, 2013
I wish you were here, I have so much to tell you...And I miss you always.. Me:)
August 2, 2012
Paulie - When I think of you I smile.
You pushed my buttons and made me better. Thank you.
I promise to continue pushing..... you set an amazing example.
Jen Marshall Stoik
August 2, 2012
Paul and I worked together, in Newport Beach, +20 years ago. I used to tease him about graduating from 'Crest' (vs Colgate), he got a kick out of this. A big personality, you always felt he was living life to it's fullest, funny, adorable, intense, unforgettable, forever young. For Paul, his family and close friends, sending comfort, peace, light and love.
Pat Stoik
August 2, 2012
I just found out from a mutual friend that Paul left us two years ago...I lost touch with Paul after I left NYC in the 90's but i will always remember the great times we had while living in Newport Beach working at Chubb...He was a great guy and our group of friends certainly had fun...He was a unique and spirited man and he will be truely missed ....
Angela Welch-Wolfson
August 1, 2011
I just found out today that Paul passed away last year. I was broken hearted, to say the least.
I met Paul through his brother, Mark, in the early '80's. He came from New York to visit us in Houston. The first time I saw him, I knew we would be fast friends. His sarcastic sense of humor won me over right away! The bond between him and Mark was obvious. You could tell they loved each other dearly.
Over the next several years, I was able to hang out with him in New York and Texas. It didn't matter what situation he was in, he was always the life of the party.
We shared some dark times together, but mostly they were happy and fun. I will always remember the happy ones....his smile lit up a room!
My heart goes out to his family and friends. I'm sure Paul will be missed forever. As many others have said, he will always hold a special place in my heart!
RIP, Paul.
Elaine Rose
April 26, 2011
Ohhh...I couldn't sleep tonight so I started to look up people I knew and past boyfriends on the internet...and I found this about Paul. To say I'm shocked is an understatement. I am so terribly sorry to hear of his passing.
I met him back in 1988 and our relationship over the years was tempestuous to say the least, but overall he was a joy to be around and we always had a great time together. I don't know how much his family knew of me but I was one of the reasons why he moved from San Clemente to Newport Beach to New York to La Jolla to San Francisco; between our fighting and making up the moving companies made a lot of money!
We lost touch after he moved to Texas but I always thought we would get a chance to reunite as old friends and laugh about our fiery history. Alas, it's not to be.
I am so sad for his family. Paul's quick wit, his (mostly) sunny disposition and clever humor will surely be missed. Although he and I had a lot of ups and downs, he will always have a special place in my heart.
Rest In Peace, Paul. ?
Andree Barber-Bartle
November 5, 2010
To the Family and friends of Paul Brinley,
it has just been very recently that I have learned of Paul's passing. I was saddened to hear of it. Paul was ahead of me by a couple of years at Andes. He always made me smile and laugh and was always a good friend. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you as we all celebrate the wonderful life he enjoyed so much.
July 25, 2010
My, husband Harold and I have just heard of Paul's sudden death. We loved his sweet demeaner with everyone he met.
We remember the first time we met him at By the Sea at the New Year's Eve Party. We told him to stick close to the tennis gang and he would be ok. That if he wanted to know the answer to most anything Frank Russo or Dr. George would have the answer.
He was so good to both of them and their families.
He was my favorite tennis partner. We had such great times on Sat. and Sundays on the court. He was always ready to try any new shots on the court.
Paul was always there for snacks to be in the middle of visiting and getting to know everyone just a little bit better.
Paul had no enemies and had such a kind heart. He will be missed by all and never forgotten. He was charming and always a gentleman.
pitsy & harold dahlstrom
[email protected]
Barbara Tarrant
March 11, 2010
There will never be a 4 o'clock on Friday, that I won't look at the front door and expect to see Paul walk in to watch Oprah with me. Translated that means catching up on the week over a glass of wine. He made my week-ends at By the Sea very special. I miss him alot.
Ellen (Rose) Lukkasson
February 24, 2010
As I have scrolled through the pages of this book I have discovered that throughout his life Paul has continued to affect people in the same way he did back in high school. That infectous, goofy grin, those sparkling eyes that were just looking for someone to laugh with, and the arms that were ready to hug you if he thought you needed a hug. I see the scrawny kid finally grew into those ears of his too! I loved Paul dearly and will always remember him with a smile.
To the entire family and all those he loved I am so very sorry for your tremendous loss. But I know that he loved you all well and will be there to meet you in heaven.
patty & chris
February 8, 2010
We are so fortunate that we enjoyed your company, your graceful personality and that contageous laugh that made our whole day brighter.
You are an ahgel sent from heaven.
Patty and Chris
Mary Alice Etheredge
February 3, 2010
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Brinley,
I have but recently learned of Paul's passing. I am flooded by memories of our time together and wanted you to know that even though we weren't meant to be, I have only the softest spot for him in my heart. My deepest condolences to you both and all of Paul's family and friends. It is comforting to know he found peace living on the beach.
Bill Stevens
February 2, 2010
I am deeply saddened to learn of Paul's passing. You are all in my prayers.
February 1, 2010
The Brinley Family at Union Church of San Juan was always a great part of everyone's lives then and now. We grieve with you for your loss, Diana and Bob, but know Paul has already begun His heavenly tasks. When "We" get there, he will be able to show us the way! Love, Ellen & Gary Humbert
David Chambers
February 1, 2010
I love the photograph of Paul on the phone. That face, with the radiant smile and flashing eyes, is very much the way I remember him from our days at Colgate. He was a fun guy, but also smart and compassionate and a great friend. I'm very sorry to hear of his passing.
Loren Jurgens
January 29, 2010
I am overwhelmed to learn of Paul's untimely death. My prayers are with you in this difficult time.
John Liddle
January 29, 2010
I was shocked to hear that Paul had passed. Our days in Andes will never be forgotten....Class of 1980. We all enjoyed speaking to Paul by phone during our 25th Class reunion. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Samantha Burge
January 29, 2010
I just wanted to let you know personally that I’m very sorry about Paul’s passing. I wish I could’ve gotten to know him better. Scott always told me that Paul was his favorite cousin and when I met him for the first time I could see what Scott meant. My first Christmas in Texas with the whole family was very nerve-racking. Paul, Bob and you welcomed me with open arms and made me feel very welcomed and apart of the family. I just wanted to tell you and Bob that I’m very sorry and that were thinking about you during this tough time. We love you very much and we will see you guys very soon. I promise! We’re looking at this spring for a visit to Texas and would definitely like to see you guys.
You’re in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Samantha Burge
Edward Peterson
January 29, 2010
Dearest Robert, Diana and Family;
There is no way to thank you for having given this remarkable man Paul to everyone who knew him.
I am remembering the wonderful times in Puerto Rico with Paul and the both of you on the beach after Sunday Services, his organ lessons and musical intelligence, the dinners with him in Doylestown, PA, his short and impulsive visit to Florida to visit me after an 18 hour drive from Texas to name only a few things.
He had a zest, curiosity and energy for everything in life and most especially a gift for bringing his special outlook to those whom he knew intimately and even occasionally. If life is a Banquet, Paul made certain all those around him never starved by his very presence.
What a wonderful gift you have given to everyone in your beautiful child, Paul. The sorrow of his absence is softened only by the wonder and beauty of who he was and the memories he leaves for me personally.
Patti (Dell) and Stuart Slutzman
January 28, 2010
We extent our hearts as you go through this very tough time. Know that we are thinking of you both.
Britt Thurman
January 28, 2010
I don’t remember the occasion of the first Brinley family event I attended, but what I do remember was trouble when I saw it. A close study of Paul and Mark together proved out just what I first thought. Partners in crime, and I wanted to be a part of it. They made it easy for me. A few verbal volleys back and forth to test each other’s skills and I was in. The first thing I would ask Sandy about any Brinley get together was “is Paul going to be there”? If so, I could hardly wait. He would be the first to greet me, with a large smile and an even bigger personality to go with it. Paul could equally play the role of comedian or straight man, and vying for position at a party between Paul and Mark was a challenge I always looked forward to. With the three of us together Bob Brinley seldom stood a chance. Bob wasn’t our only target but he was always our favorite.
I had a 1989 Lincoln town car that I loved, but it seemed to be the bane of Bob’s existence. A car like the beast needs to go to the right home and it just seemed to suite Paul’s personality. The perfect plan was hatched. Paul needed a car, I needed to sell the beast, and we both knew Bob and Diana would need Paul to pick them up every now and then. In a way the plan backfired but was still beneficial to Paul. As cheap as Bob is he would hire a taxi before he would call and bother Paul to pick him up in the beast. Some discussion about placing a set of longhorn horns on the hood was held, but never took place. Paul’s sense of humor was as large as that car. That made him special to me. I will miss Paul Brinley very, very much.
Brenda Paustian
January 27, 2010
Dear Paul,
I'll never forget you. We met in the summer of 2005, and you saved me. You taught me how to live and laugh again. Your intelligence, warmth, laughter, and playfulness will be missed. I promise to take care of Sammy. I've changed his name to Sammy B. Thank you for enriching my life, and I hope I added some happiness to yours. Once a person met you, there was no forgetting you. People couldn't help but smile and laugh when around you, myself included. I wish I could and would have done more for you when I still had the time.
I'll love and remember you forever.
Brenda
Barbara and Roy Moses
January 27, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
January 27, 2010
My condolences to the Brinley family at this very sad time. I didn't know Paul that well, but I knew that he was very special. Our prayers and thoughts are with you...
Melanie (Wern) Squires and the rest of the Wern family in Margaretville.
Dawn Almanza
January 27, 2010
Paul was my grandfather's best friend. After my grandfather passed away, he would check in on my grandmother each day. Thank you Paul for being the wonderful, kind and caring person you were to my beloved grandparents!
Terry Burge
January 27, 2010
Paul Brinley, much as the apostle for whom he was named, was a rare and precious gift.His intelligence, compassion, warmth and wit were treasured by all who came to know him. He loved music, literature, laughter, his friends and most of all his family, to whom he was absolutely devoted.
If charm was traded on the stock exchange, Paul would have commanded wealth without limits. We cherished his smile, that disarming twinkle in his eye and the sincerity with which he approached us all.
He possessed a keen intellect, evidenced by the honors degree from a prestigious Ivy League university.
Despite its painful brevity, Paul’s story is one of courage and inspiration. Time too often robs us of our enthusiasm, our sense of wonder and excitement. Yet Paul repeatedly reminded us that life is a joy. And for someone to whom living was so frequently a struggle against dark and undeserved currents, he nevertheless remained incredibly passionate about life’s treasures.
Diana remarked recently that Paul’s gentle soul had found sanctuary over the last decade in the ebb and flow of Galveston. Now, of course, he has finally found that most blessed peace, impossible for him here, on a more lasting shore. And though we miss him deeply, who among us, to whom he so generously gave his love, would deny him that reward?
He was a fine nephew and will be sorely missed.
Tyler burge
January 26, 2010
Paul was a person who just made you feel better when you were down. He always smiled I can't remember the last time we were together when he didn't smile. He will be missed forever as long as I live.
Rosalind Santorocco
January 24, 2010
To Paul's family, I am so sad to hear about Paul, I knew Paul from a long time ago in NYC. My Prayers are with you all at this time.
January 24, 2010
Dear Brinley Family--
I was a classmate of Paul's at Colgate, where he lit up a room with his humor and his sweet smile. Please know that you are in our thoughts.
Jane Hamlin
Breckenridge, CO
January 23, 2010
Brinley Family...
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Bonnie Morris Conrad
DAR
Kyle Button '84
January 23, 2010
Robert and Diana - I knew Paul well at Colgate. He always had that goofy smile on his face and a glint in his eye that challenged you to keep pace with both his humor and his intellect. I remember him most fondly and I am very sorry for your loss that must seem so random and cruel. I hope there is some comfort in knowing that Paul's influence and friendship reached so many.
January 22, 2010
Wayne and I have enough memories of our beloved Paulie to keep him alive in EVERYONES' hearts 4EVER!!!
Wayne Morse
January 22, 2010
Bob and Diane, it is with a heavy heart that Hilary and I send our condolences. Colgate, NYC, Puerto Rico, the jersey shore, where do we begin. He was an integral part of our lives and you have our deepest sympathies. My children cried when they heard that Uncle Paulie had passed away. We always thought that we would kick back and have a drink somewhere warm in our 70's. Goodbye Paul, I'm sure we'll meet again. Hilary and Wayne Morse
Bruce Healey
January 22, 2010
Dear Brinley Family,
Paul was a classmate of mine at Colgate. I will always remember his giving me rides up the hill in his old Ford (Falcon or Fairlane?) and his generosity of spirit. He always had a minute, always had a good word to say.We could all use more Paul Brinleys in our lives.
Jim Cacioppo
January 22, 2010
Paul was a wonderful friend. He and I were classmates at Colgate and we spent alot of time together post graduation when he lived in New York City and in California. We had alot of great times and were very close friends. I will always cherish the wonderful memories, his great spirit and of course his outstanding sense of humor. I had many of the biggest laughs of my life with Paul. This saddens me deeply. My prayers are with Paul, Bob and Diana.
Lynn & Ron Mylius
January 22, 2010
Dear Bob and Diana,
We have always connected with Paul in the best of family times together...weddings, holidays and other celebrations of life. We send or love to both of you today as you gather to celebrate Paul's life. We are there with you in our hearts. May the circle be unbroken.
Bob Bregman
January 22, 2010
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Brinley & Family,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on Paul's passing. I will miss his sense of humor, keen intellect, and the genuine caring he had for people. Paul was a rare person who enriched my life and, from reading this memory book, did likewise for so many others. He was a wonderful man in all of the ways that truly matter. Again, my deepest sympathies.
Judy and Dale Olcott
January 22, 2010
Dear Brinley Family,
Our sons, Rick and Doug were at Colgate with Paul. We had the pleasure of knowing him there. He also was the video guy at Doug and Ivanka's wedding. He gave typical "Paul" comments through out, but the thing that we remember most is his giggle, such joy and life.
Our prayers are with you, we can't begin to know the sorrow you have in losing a child.
With deepest sympathy.
Judy and Dale Olcott
Noelle, Danielle, & Joe
January 22, 2010
Our brother-in-law and uncle will be sorely missed. We have many fun memories to cherish, but his sudden passing has left us so sad.
Rick Olcott
January 22, 2010
To the Brinley family
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the recent loss of your son and brother. I knew Paul from Colgate University where he was my fraternity brother. His laugh and sense of humor were contagious, his positive outlook on life was refreshing and the twinkle in his eye could readily light up any room.
Ancient Egyptians believed that upon death
they would be asked two questions
and their answers would determine
whether they could continue their journey in the afterlife.
The first question was, "Did you bring joy?"
The second was, "Did you find joy?"
The answers to both of these questions is a resounding yes for Paul and when I close my eyes I hear them laughing with him now at the gates of heaven.
Melissa Oliver
January 21, 2010
I love you and will miss you always, Uncle Paul. You helped me in so many ways you never knew. We will laugh around a campfire and fire trebuchets one day again; you have only slipped away to the next room.
Love you forever.
Mellie.
January 21, 2010
Paul was, quite simply, the love of my life. My heart is lost without him.
Thank you, Diana and Robert, for giving us such a beautiful soul. A gifted, intelligent, loving,playful, bend you double with laughter sense of humor,charming, sensitive and irreplaceable human being. He will never be matched or forgotten.
I send my deepest condolences and love to you and the family.
Claudia
Linda and Terry Rountree
January 21, 2010
We are so very sorry for your loss. We have a condo at By the Sea and have known Paul for several years now. I just can't imagine what it will be like there without him. He was so outgoing, vivacious, thoughtful, and a friend to everyone he met. He will be sorely missed. Our prayers are with you and all who mourn him.
Chandra Bartlett
January 21, 2010
Pauli and I had great conversations when he lived near us. He had a way of listening and understanding that went beyond words. I’m so saddened.
Doug Olcott
January 21, 2010
Dear Mr. and Mrs Brinley, Mark and David,
As you know, Paul was one of my closest friends since we met working at the Colgate cafateria together in 1980. He was like a brother to me. I knew that Paul was having health issues, but I am shocked and deeply saddened by the news of his passing. I don't know what to say except I share your loss as much as any one outside of the family could. I will miss his wit, charm and zest for life. We shared many happy experiences together which I will always cherish. He will live in my memory and in a special corner of my heart forever.
Dolores Lyons
January 21, 2010
Paul and I have been friends for a while now. He would come here to Moody Memorial First United Methodist Church to visit me or his/my place. We loved to give each other a hard time about our personal life. Charming and a great laugh; he said he was his parents' love child. There are no words to say I can't believe it's true. To Mr. and Mrs. Brinley I say he loves/loved you so much. He only spoke of adoratiion for you both. He so loved his brother's children. I miss the thought of not being able to see him. My prayers are with you. I could say so much more; but I'd have to use his colorful words. I love you Paul. God Bless
Chris Mooney
January 21, 2010
Paul made my Colgate experience what it was...hallmate freshman year, frat brother and roommate sophomore year and best friend junior and senior. My deepest condolences to you, Mr. and Mrs. Brinley. He was so proud of his whole family and lit the world around him.
Bob & Diana Brinley
January 21, 2010
To the many friends that have signed this guest book, Diana and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts. A final memorial service to celebrate Paul's life and legacy will be held tomorrow, January 22 at 2 p.m. at The Clear Lake United Methodist Church, 16355 El Camino Real, Houston, a few blocks from our home here. God bless you all!
January 20, 2010
Alice Braud-Jones
January 20, 2010
Sam Houston Chapter, NSDAR extends sincere condolences and sympathy to our chapter member and friends Diana and Bob Brinley. We were honored to have met Paul this past December and join the family in mourning his loss.
Steve Brinley
January 20, 2010
Thank you to all who have expressed their love for Paul. His charismatic and wonderful outlook on life will be sorely missed and he will live on forever in our hearts and thoughts. Remember him for the fullness he gave to each of our lives. We will miss you bro. Sleep well. Love, Your Brother Steve.
rob strong
January 20, 2010
While I only met you one time I feel as if I knew you forever. Your Brother John always spoke so highly of you! While in your company I found you to be funny and caring. You will be missed! Heaven will welcome you...
Rob Strong, Philadelphia, pa.
Brother John
January 20, 2010
You'll live in my heart and mind,
so long as breath I may find.
And when my last day is closed,
we will ever stay apposed.
So for now my brother, from we who love you dearly...
"Now cracks a noble heart. Good night sweet prince:
And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest!"
Paul Warun
January 20, 2010
Mr & Mrs Brinley & Family,
My Condolences on your loss. I had the honor to know Paul over the last few winters at By the Sea. He was a joy to be with- He will be missed.
Paul Warun - Galveston
Jim and Mary Clifton
January 20, 2010
Bob and Diana,
We were so saddened to learn of Paul's passing. We loved his quick wit and sense of humor, something you,too, will sorely miss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of sorrow. You know we love you.
Pamela Brinley
January 20, 2010
I am truly saddened by your loss. May God be with him. Paul was a witty and intelligient man. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this time of grief. Paul will be soarly missed.
Suze Skovsende
January 20, 2010
Mr. & Mrs. B --- I am so sorry! What a gift of life he has given to many. Paul was one heck of a guy! I'll miss his wit and charm on the computer, even that stubborn streak he had now & then. He helped me through a really tough time in my life with those 'late night calls' from Texas to New York. I was glad he took the time & called.
My thoughts and prayers are with you & your family. If you get back to Andes, PLEASE stop by, I'd love to see both of you again.
Jan Jouett
January 20, 2010
Bob and Diane,
I am so saddened to hear of the sudden death of Paul. My thought and prayers are with you and your family.
Pat/Nan Padgett
January 20, 2010
OUR MOST HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES TO PAUL'S FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Pat and Nan Padgett
January 20, 2010
Judi Godwin
January 20, 2010
I am so sorry to hear of your loss.
Know that the strength of God is within you. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of grief.
Bennett Bartlett
January 20, 2010
We greatly enjoyed Pauli and his joie de vivre when he lived near us in Garden Oaks. We are saddened, and terribly sorry for you all.
Scott & Samantha Burge
January 20, 2010
Scott and I are deeply saddened by the sudden death of Paul. He will be forever missed. To Paul’s family, we just want to send you our love and that we’re thinking and praying for you during this tough time.
Scott & Samantha Burge
Pamela Burge
January 20, 2010
What a beautiful gift - this lovely man Paul was. My life was enriched in so many ways and he leaves nothing but loving, fun memories for my two sons, Scott & Tyler as well. In ways I feel he's now able to look back on - he will see that his quirky zest for life, his unstoppable exuberance - his sweet wisdom and spontaneous joy colored many hearts and we'll never be the same. Leaving all too soon - how painful for us - there were so many things yet to say and do -
but how lucky we've been in this lifetime to have known him, and by Paul...simply being Paul - He touched many with gentleness and love and will never be forgotten.
To his family of origin and his family of life - my sincerest condolences for your loss. God speed and love always Paul - Pamela
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