Sep
16
Sep
17
2:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Georgia National Cemetery
1080 Scott Hudgens Dr, Canton, GA 30114
Send FlowersServices provided by
Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home – Blairsville ChapelOnly 4 days left for delivery to next service.
On September 3rd, 2025, Paul Leroy Durnell went to be with his Lord and Savior. Born on January 25, 1947, in San Pedro, California, Paul dedicated his life to serving his country and community, leaving a remarkable legacy of commitment, courage, and compassion.
Paul was a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where he honed his skills as a marksman and served with honor, earning several commendations, including the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal. After his military service, he spent 25 years as a dedicated Sergeant with the Los Angeles Police Department, exemplifying a commitment to keeping his community safe. Paul also had a successful 20-year career as a Real Estate Agent.
He is survived by his wife Mary Ann Durnell; daughter Tricia (Craig) Tyner; son Chris (Suzan) Durnell; brother Dale Durnell; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Durnell Sr. and Violet Wilkerson Durnell; and brother, Bill Durnell.
Paul was a cherished member of the Fellowship of the Hills, where he found joy and fellowship among friends who became family. He had a passion for fishing, golfing, and traveling.
In light of his remarkable life, we invite all who loved Paul to honor his memory. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 16th at 1:00 pm at Fellowship of the Hills. Inurnment will take place at Georgia National Cemetery on Wednesday, September 17th at 1:30 pm.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
41 Hunt-Martin St P.O. Box 338, Blairsville, GA 30514
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreSep
16
Sep
17
2:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Georgia National Cemetery
1080 Scott Hudgens Dr, Canton, GA 30114
Send FlowersServices provided by
Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home – Blairsville ChapelOnly 4 days left for delivery to next service.