Paul Coffman Graybill Sr.

Paul Coffman Graybill Sr. obituary, Roanoke, VA

Paul Coffman Graybill Sr.

Paul Graybill Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Valley Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Roanoke on Jul. 23, 2025.

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Paul Coffman Graybill, age 89, a lifelong resident of Troutville, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 20, 2025. He was born on March 17, 1936, on the Graybill family farm-a homestead that had been passed down through multiple generations. He was the youngest of 14 children and lovingly referred to as the "baby" of the family. His siblings included five half-sisters: Mary, Ruth, Clara, Bertha, and Sarah, and full siblings: Lois, Rachel, George, Katherine, Naomi, Irvin, Jonas, and Lucille, all of whom doted on their youngest brother.
In September 1961, Paul married Gaye Yvonne Campbell. During their early years together, Paul served in the Virginia National Guard, stationed at Fort Knox, Kentucky. He was honorably discharged as a Sergeant in 1964 after seven years of dedicated military service.
Paul and Gaye began building their family in 1962, but endured the unimaginable loss of three children-Karen, Ronald, and Sandra. Despite this tragedy, their dream of raising a family was fulfilled with the births of Sharon, Paul Jr., and Bonny. The family was later struck by the devastating loss of Gaye in the spring of 1978.
In 1979, Paul married Janet Grantham, welcoming stepdaughter Veronica into his life. Although the marriage ended, his relationship with both Veronica and Janet continued over the years. In 1987, Paul found lasting love with Margaret Rose Moyers, who brought with her three grown children-Kathy, Bill, and Linda-and grandchildren Nicki and Adam.
Paul worked hard across several industries to provide for his family, but his heart was always in farming and working with his hands. He returned to his roots on the family farm, building a home and turning his passion into a livelihood. He later became a self-employed carpenter and concrete finisher, known in the community for his craftsmanship and reliability. His work spoke for itself-no advertising was ever needed. Once he finished a carport enclosure, deck, or sidewalk, neighbors were quick to request his help next.
In addition to his devotion to family and farming, Paul was a man of faith and a lifelong member of Troutville Church of the Brethren. He served in many capacities, including on the Ways and Means, Property & Maintenance, and Witness committees. He found great joy in singing in the choir and teaching Sunday School.
Paul also had a deep sense of civic duty and patriotism. He served as Chairman of the Botetourt County Republican Committee for four years and as Regional Vice Chairman of the 6th District for another four. He was a lifetime member of the Gideons International Association, serving as treasurer, secretary, and chaplain. He also dedicated time to the League of Older Americans and served as President of the Troutville Cemetery Association.
He found joy in the simple things-working cattle on his farm, tending to his summer garden, watching calves play in the pasture, pitching horseshoes, and enjoying boxing, golf, and figure skating. Above all, his greatest joy was his family. Paul lovingly gifted portions of the family land to his children and grandchildren, ensuring that his legacy would live on through future generations on the beloved Graybill property.
Paul was preceded in death by all of his siblings and, most recently, by his beloved son, Paul Coffman Graybill Jr., in February 2024.
Left to cherish a lifetime of memories are his wife, Rose; daughters, Sharon Graybill McNeil (Larry), Veronica Grantham, and Bonny Graybill Wright (David); grandchildren, Michael McNeil, Elizabeth "Liz" Spangler (Darin), David Wright Jr., and Amanda Wright; great-grandson, Kayden Wright; and step-granddaughter, Mariah Spangler. Paul was joyfully anticipating the arrival of his great-granddaughter, Kira Lynn Spangler, expected in November 2025.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 12 p.m. at Troutville Church of the Brethren (5153 Lee Hwy, Troutville, VA 24175), with visitation beginning at 11 a.m., one hour prior to the service with Pastor Terry Johnson officiating.
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