Paul Wilson Phinney

Paul Wilson Phinney, age 87, passed away peacefully at home with family on August 23, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and kindness that touched many lives.
Paul was born in Japan and spent his early years in Colombia, where his parents were missionaries, before moving to Eugene, Oregon. His life was a journey across places and peoples, but it was at Taylor University in Indiana where he met the great love of his life, Sandra Marshall. Married for nearly 60 years after Paul proposed on the first date, Paul and Sandy built a home that overflowed with warmth, welcome, and generosity. Paul was a devoted husband, a loving father to his three children and their spouses, a proud grandfather to his six grandchildren, and a spiritual father and grandfather to many "adopted" children and grandchildren.
Paul studied at seminary before earning his MBA and pursuing a career in sales and marketing. A man of deep faith, Paul served in leadership roles in churches for decades, opening his heart to the congregation, lifting his voice in joyful song, and sharing his vision of true community. Paul was also known for his playful spirit and silly humor, and delighted in brightening people's days with a song or a laugh.
Paul saw the humanity in every person. He cared deeply for immigrants, refugees, and unhoused neighbors, offering hospitality and friendship to those in need. In Lafayette, CO, where he moved in 2011 to be close to family, he forged new friendships and delighted in turning strangers into fast friends, even in his final weeks of life.
The world is a better, kinder place because Paul was in it. He loved well and he was well-loved. Paul was predeceased by his wife Sandy and brothers Ed Phinney and Tim Price. He leaves children Eric Phinney, Lauren Larson (Chris), Alison Harvey (Philip), brothers David Phinney and Kevin Price, and grandchildren Alaina Phinney, Maya Phinney, Henry Larson, Evie Larson, Juno Harvey, and Jay Harvey.
A service to celebrate Paul's life will be held at 3 p.m. MDT Saturday August 30, 2025 at Cairn Christian Church, 1700 Stonehenge Dr, Lafayette, CO 80026. Donations are requested in lieu of flowers: Sister Carmen Community Center, A Peaceful Journey Hospice, or the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition.