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BORN
1949
DIED
2020
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Paul McGill Obituary
November 12, 2020
Charlotte, North Carolina - Dr. Paul A. McGill transitioned home on November 12, 2020. He was a young trailblazer during the early years of integration in Charlotte, NC, and he continued to blaze trails by becoming the first African American Orthodontist to serve Charlotte.
Paul Arnold McGill was born on September 12, 1949, to Mary Sanders McGill and James Robert McGill at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Charlotte, NC. He was the second of six children. Always a hard worker and diligent student, Paul graduated from West Mecklenburg High School with honors. He received his bachelor's degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Howard University. After completing his education and training in Orthodontics at Howard, he joined the faculty and taught for five years with a special focus on treating children with cleft palate and other maxillofacial anomalies. In the early 1980s, Dr. McGill returned to Charlotte with a vision and on a mission.
Dedication, Diligence, and Commitment
Dr. McGill often said, "Practice is good, but perfect practice should be the goal." He was dedicated to serving everyone -- those who could afford and those who could not afford orthodontic care. Often, he provided care without charge to children with severe needs. He felt honored by the mentorship of Dr. Lacy Caple during his relocation to Charlotte.
Dr. McGill was a dedicated civic leader. Committed to serving the underserved, he established his practice in the Beatties Ford community. He served as a member and in leadership of many community organizations, including the Beatties Ford Corridor Incubator and the C.W. Williams Community Health Center. He was honored by have the privilege of serving on the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church Trustee Board for many years and was a proud member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Dr. McGill enjoyed helping others achieve their dreams and often said, "I was the first, but I will not be the last". In 2017, he was honored by the Charlotte Medical Society for his dedication to the community. He believed in the McCrorey YMCA, served on its board, and was honored in January 2019 as one annual MLK Prayer Breakfast founders. This event that started with just a few people 25 years ago celebrated with more than 1,000 attendees in 2019. He was thankful and humbled by the shows of appreciation.
Dedicated to his profession, Dr. McGill was a past president of the Charlotte Medical, Dental and Pharmaceutical Society and a past member of the NC Medical Care Commission. He thoroughly enjoyed convening with his colleagues in the AJ Williams Study Club and the Old North State Dental Society. Dedicated to helping others achieve their dreams, Dr. McGill and his wife, Dr. Cheryl Walker-McGill, launched the Right Track Program, a mentoring and internship program for high school and college students. He was immensely proud of his students who pursued careers in dentistry graduating from ECU, Meharry and Howard University. He appreciated receiving their updates through the years.
Dr. McGill was enthusiastic about technology overall and applied innovation in his professional and personal life. He enjoyed exploring potential applications of 3-D and new digital healthcare technology and he worked tirelessly on developing strategies for increasing broadband access in at risk communities and looked forward to the day when educational opportunities could be accessed with a simple click.
A Beautiful Smile and A Loving Heart
Dr. McGill loved and was dedicated to his family, friends, and his church. He loved feeling loved and enjoyed the special birthday celebrations of his love and life with family and friends in Charlotte, Sag Harbor, Miami, Detroit, Hawaii, and many other places around the world. "When one thinks of Paul, one thinks of joy, he brought joy and he lived a life of joy", said Dr. Ralph Loomis.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made payable to the C.W. Kerry Scholarship Fund, c/o Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 3400 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte, NC 28216.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Paul McGill
Tulio Mario Tello
January 6, 2023
El padre que guió nuestra carrera y enseñó lo que la ortodoncia muchas gracias Doctor.
Robin Young
November 8, 2022
In a moment of gratefulness, just found out about the loss of Dr. McGill. I sought him out in the Dental School to give me braces as a dental hygiene student. I also worked in his Maryland office until my ortho was done and my braces were removed at age 21. He was a gentle, kind perfectionist. I will always appreciate the things learned and the opportunity afforded me by working my debt off in his office and my magnificent smile many years later. My condolences to the family.
Janice Neal
May 4, 2022
I am so sorry for being so late to find this out. Dr. Paul McGill was one the kindest people I ever had the pleasure to know. I worked for Dr. McGill in his Maryland Office at Belford Towers as a dental assistance and receptionist. My condolences to the family.
Wendy E Bowman
January 29, 2022
Wow! I don't know why I'm just finding this out but Dr. McGill was the best orthodontist. My condolences to his family and may GOD give you the strength to endure.
Bradford Picot
November 14, 2021
Dr. McGill was one of the first people who welcomed me to the Charlotte dental community. I remember him hosting our meetings at his house and having such a warm personality. He was also very active in the church and welcomed my family. He will be deeply missed.
Scott Moses
October 7, 2021
A great man with a great personality and great big heart. Say hello to your mom and dad for me and rest easy my friend.
Scott Moses
Anne Maitland
March 11, 2021
Saddened to hear this news. My deepest sympathies to his wife and family. Dr. McGill epitomized the love of science and medicine, inspiring others to do the same. May he rest in peace
LARRI DIGGS-JONES
January 19, 2021
My sincere condolences; as I’m just learning of this loss. Dr. McGill was quite an inspiration to me; as I served as a dental assistant while in college at UNCC; majoring in Biology-Pre-Dental. He was such a giving individual; ensuring that all who may otherwise not have had the opportunity to receive orthodontia care, could, in addition to being an amazing teacher-mentor. He was such a gentle giant and will be missed throughout this community. Thank you for your service. Larri
Gloria Brooks
December 12, 2020
We send our deepest Condolences and we will miss Paul. He now has his wings in heaven.
Love George & Gloria
Fank & Idalene Murray
November 22, 2020
Cheryl. when sorrow comes you're not alone for God is always there. to Strengthen and watch over you and keep you in his care. in His loving way He'll ease the grief that is yours today, and give you comfort always as you move along life's way. With Love and sympathy, Frank and Idalene Murray
delcine
November 22, 2020
Heartfelt condolences to the family. Dr.McGill was my daughter's introduction to braces in the 80s. He was kindness and professional and made her experience special. I'm a charlotte native and was also born at good sam so especially proud to have been served by him.
Clarence Ellis
November 20, 2020
Paul worked hard to serve his patients and community to the best of his generous abilities. As a physician, mentor, colleague and friend, he will always be missed. Such characters are rare and irreplaceable.
Quiana Robinson
November 20, 2020
I will keep the family in my prayers! I appreciated how open and welcoming Dr. McGill was when I came back home to practice dentistry.
Michael Etomi
November 20, 2020
I will always remember Dr Paul McGill-the gentle giant with a warm smile all the time and who was forever engaged in activities that made others better.May his kind soul Rest In Peace.Condolences to Dr Cheryl Walker-McGill and the rest of the family
Patrick Evivie
November 20, 2020
Dr. Paul McGill was a gentleman per excellence, his warm & kind personality will be forever missed.
I pray the good lord grants his soul a peaceful rest and his family the fortitude to bear the loss.
Patrick & Loretta Evivie
Dr. Robee Bailey, Jr.
November 20, 2020
Dr. McGill had an infectious warm personality. When your were not laughing with him you were silent & listening to him. Listening to his stories of history ... his story.
My condolences to the family on your loss!
Aaron Davis
November 20, 2020
I did not know Paul for a long time, but from the first time we met, I will always remember his calm demeanor and warm spirit. I wish I could have spent more time getting to know him. You could tell he was always interested in growing his knowledge in so many areas. What a remarkable man who accomplished SO much!
Margaret Johnson
November 20, 2020
Omg I will never forget Dr. McGill. He was my orthodontist and I am so sorry for your loss. Such a great and gentle man.
Dan Gasby
November 20, 2020
He was a gentle giant with a mind sharper than broken glass and a heart ❤ like a dove that was both tender and caring!
Sylvia French-Hodges
November 20, 2020
My thoughts are with you and your family in this very sad time. I only met Dr. McGill once, but observed him to be a very gentle soul and to have a spirit of extreme kindness. May he rest in peace.
Catherine Cunningham
November 20, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God comfort you and bring peace to your hearts during this difficult time.
From the CUNNINGHAM Family
~~ David, Christine, Catherine & Hartford ~~
Lucy
November 20, 2020
Dear McGill family,
I'm so sadden to hear about your loss. Dr. McGill was a wonderfully kind man in the years that I've worked with him. He will truly be missed but not forgotten. May the Lord give you all the strength you need during this time. My thoughts and prayers goes out to you all.
Michael Stout
November 19, 2020
Paul was well respected and appreciated by all of his colleagues in the community. His passing comes as a great surprise to many of us and we will surely miss his wonderful spirit. Paul made many great contributions to the Medical/Dental Society. We offer our sincere Condolences to his family. May you find comfort and peace as time passes on and rest easy that Paul did his work here on this earth with enthusiasm, passion and compassion. Job Well Done Good Brother! We Love You!
Cheryl Waymer
November 19, 2020
Paul's smile will never fade and never fail to make me smile and think of God's goodness
Aunt Lois Rice and Family
November 19, 2020
Please accept our heartfelt condolences. We are deeply saddened with the passing of Dr. Paul Arnold McGill. He was a very kind and generous person and will be missed by many. Our prayers are with you.
Vicki Young
November 19, 2020
Cheryl, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in your hour of bereavement. May you find comfort and strength in the LOVING And FAITHFUL arms of God, our Father.
melvin pinn
November 19, 2020
Dr. McGill was one of the nicest people that I have ever known, we are praying for the family.
Dr. Melvin Pinn and Family
Theodore Brooks, DDS, MPH
November 19, 2020
I met Paul when he was a college senior considering training at Howard's Dental College. I was a sr. student and took him on a tour of the college. In later years, we often met at Old North State meetings. I was impressed by his accomplishments. I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing.
Renee Caple
November 19, 2020
I always enjoyed Dr. McGills visits to my father's office. He was always wearing a smile and was the epitome of professionalism. My condolences to his family and may he Rest In Peace
Stephen Keene
November 19, 2020
I am so very sorry for this loss. Peace to Dr. McGill's family.
Mohammed Arsiwala
November 18, 2020
Paul! You will always be in my heart. I can never forget the time I walked into an Italian restaurant and the owner who was Italian came running towards you and said “Buonasera Mohammed Ali is in the house”, Paul graciously replies with a smile and closed first “ fly like a butterfly and sting like a bee” that’s Paul to me. He bought out the happiness around us and his sense of calm was so wonderful. I WILL MISS YOU BUDDY.
Ali
Humayun Chaudhry, DO, MACP
November 18, 2020
Reflections of Paul Arnold McGill, DDS
By Humayun J. Chaudhry, DO, MACP
President and CEO, Federation of State Medical Boards
Many in Charlotte and across North Carolina will remember Dr. Paul Arnold McGill as a
distinguished Doctor of Dental Surgery – the first African-American orthodontist, in fact, to serve the
fine city of Charlotte, rising to become President of the Charlotte Medical, Dental and
Pharmaceutical Society. We also remember him for being a dedicated civic leader, a passionate
provider for his community, possessor of a gleaming smile, keeper of a warm heart, loyal husband
and father, son and brother, and friend to many.
For many in the medical profession across the country and around the world, Paul will also
be remembered for an important supporting role he played, serving as “First Man” to Dr. Cheryl
Walker-McGill, his beautiful wife, who in May of this year became the third African-American
female physician to be elected Chair of the Federation of State Medical Boards (the FSMB). The
FSMB is a national organization, founded in 1912, that represents all of the state and territorial
licensing boards for the practice of medicine in the United States. During Cheryl’s time on the
FSMB’s Board of Directors over the last four years, many of us got to know Paul firsthand and
quickly appreciated why he was so special. His beautiful smile and sense of humor enveloped you
and befriended you in an instant.
Dutifully accompanying his wife wherever the FSMB required her attendance, whether it was
to deliver a keynote speech here or to serve on a committee there, in places like Dallas, Washington,
DC, or Oregon, or in places as far away as Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, Paul and Cheryl were
obviously and inseparably in love. We learned a great deal about Paul’s sense of humanity and
commitment to public service, which only enhanced Cheryl’s outstanding leadership of a very
important organization during one of the worst pandemics the world has faced in recent times.
When Paul became ill a few weeks ago, Cheryl was by his side to make sure – just like she
does with her own patients and Paul did with his – that he got the best of care. When he was
hospitalized, Cheryl remained at his bedside, both of them responsibly wearing their face masks and
socially distancing to protect themselves and others. Cheryl and I have been on the phone constantly
since the pandemic began in March and, as a credit to her dedication, that connectivity did not
change much during Paul’s hospitalization. As the best of us in health care somehow manage to do in
the worst of circumstances, Cheryl balanced her work and her life, just as Paul did before he retired
from practice two years ago. Cheryl was with me on the phone a few hours before Paul moved on,
staying positive and hopeful for his recovery while talking about what the nation’s state medical
boards and the FSMB can do to better support our nation as we head into a darker winter.
Paul’s passing has shocked and stunned us all, here and abroad. As we move forward we will do what we can, as I know Paul would have wanted, to do everything possible to help the people of
Charlotte, the people of North Carolina and everyone in our great nation to support our health care
workers – physicians, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, and so many others – do the best they can to help
protect us, and ultimately rid us, of the coronavirus.
Everyone who has ever met Paul has been lucky to know him. I know Paul is with us today
and smiling his beautiful smile at our comments, thoughts and prayers.
Chris & Demetria Grandberry
November 18, 2020
This is a Great loss to our community! He was an Awesome Man and Mentor! He always encouraged our son of the importance of getting an college education. He was straight up and to the point! He was very cool and calm with it! God Bless the family Rest well Sir❤
Charles Blackwell
November 18, 2020
Dear McGill Family: I share in your grief with the departure of our beloved Paul. He was a gentle giant who exemplified the Christ in his life by his deeds and actions. His dedication to his family, profession, church and community was continuously on display and many individuals, including myself, benefited from his kindness and acts of support. Given the current state of our world, please know that although I cannot caress you physically as I would like, that you have my endearing love and support. You will be in my thoughts as I continue to pray that God will grant you strength and peace as you accept Paul's transitioning to be with our Heavenly Father.
Evelyn Dove
November 18, 2020
I knew Paul back in the 1980s when I lived in Charlotte, and he was always smiling when we saw him. May he rest in peace now from the troubles of this world.
Paul & Yvonne Moore
November 18, 2020
We are so deeply sorry for your loss. May the fond memories of your loved one sustain you in the days ahead.
Liz Alston Ottey
November 18, 2020
Dear McGill Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you during this difficult time. Dr. McGill is the sole reason I wanted to become an Orthodontist. He gave me a job and invested in my growth as an orthodontic assistant while attending undergrad at UNCC. He was a wonderful mentor. He would say, " practice doesn't make perfect, but perfect practice makes perfect". I live by this statement every day because of him. I am proud to say that I graduated this past June with my Master's and Orthodontic certificate. I have to thank Dr. McGill for his love and support, for without him I would not be where I am today. May he Rest in Peace.
Cynthia Stover
November 18, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Stephanie Bain-Hunter
November 18, 2020
My daughter was a patient of Dr. McGill during her middle school/ high school years at Northwest School of the Arts. I chose Dr. McGill, because he was African American and conveniently located across the street from her school. It was NEVER a good sign if I were summoned to attend the visit. He was direct and straight to the point. He meant what he said and said what he meant. His delivery was stern, but not without compassion. I think of him every signal time I travel on Beatties Ford Road, and I think of him every time my daughter smiles. Thank You Dr. McGill, may you rest peacefully.
John Heath
November 18, 2020
Rest in Peace Dr. McGill. May God bless your family. You were a pioneer and a true westside legend.
T.Michael Todd
November 18, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Dave & Fran Cook
November 18, 2020
Paul you were a trailblazer for us in the Plato Price/ Woodland/Hoskins era. We all were so proud when you became a Dentist. You became a major part of the community and you always had a smile. Please know that you left your mark in the community and in our hearts. I know Mr’s Mary is waiting on you with open arms. Well done our good friend. Rest In Heaven.
William Logan
November 17, 2020
Dear Dr. Walker-McGill,
Deepest condolences to you and your family. I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you.
Janice Davidson
November 17, 2020
Dear McGill Family, We are so sorry for your loss. May God provide you strength during this season and lift you up with love.
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