Paul J. Medellin

Local attorney, Paul J. Medellin, died on July 10, 2002 at his home in San Antonio, TX. He is survived by his wife, Loretta Young Medellin; two sons, Jesse Diego and Marcos Paul. Preceded in death by his father, Jesse Medellin. Survived by his mother, Janie Medellin; sister, Pamela M. Bernick, M.D. and Jim Bernick, M.D., J.D.; brother, Jesse Earl Medellin, M.D. and Yolanda Medellin; nephew, Alex Bernick; nieces, Paige Bernick, Alexandra, Julia, and Caroline Medellin; cousins, Rosario, Alfred, and Adele Perez; in-laws, Carrie Ibarra Young, Leslie, Loraine and Leana Young. Paul was a graduate of Central Catholic High School (1972), Tulane University (BA 1976), University of New Orleans (MA 1997) and St. Mary's University School of Law (JD 2000). He was a devout Catholic and felt honored to be a part of the Pope's Mass in San Antonio, TX (1987). Paul strongly believed in community which led him to community organizing. He chose this work because he believed in empowering people in their neighborhoods so that they may better their quality of life. Organizing was his passion in life. He received national recognition working with churches, synagogues, and various organizations such as the All Faiths Congregation Project, the Kansas City Organizing Project, the San Diego Organizing Project, and the New Orleans Training Center Project. Paul and his family returned to San Antonio, TX from New Orleans, LA in 1996 to be with his father. He changed careers after graduating from St. Mary's Law School, providing him with another avenue for continuing his fight against social injustice. He engaged in cases involving constitutional law. This eventually led him to serve on the Board of the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas. His ultimate love was his family and as an involved father he became a member of the board of St. Peter's Prince of the Apostles Catholic School and Church. He wanted his sons to have conviction, faith, and integrity. He taught them the courage to fight against injustice wherever it may be encountered. Paul was his wife's companion. He believed in the sanctity of love and the commitment marriage deserves. To his friends, Paul was loyal and compassionate. We will all remember his boisterous laughter, his love for debate, home-made popcorn and shaved-ice, and his quest for the perfect barbeque. The Medellin family has requested that in lieu of flowers, contributions be considered for the "Paul J. Medellin Civil Liberties Scholarship Fund" at the Broadway National Bank. SERVICES Visitation beginning 3:00 P.M., Friday, July 12, 2002 with Rosary at 7:00 P.M. at Mission Park South Funeral Chapel, 1700 SE Military Dr. Friends will meet at St. Peter's Prince of the Apostles Catholic Church, 111 Barilla, in Alamo Heights on Saturday, July 13, 2002 where Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 A.M. Interment will follow at Mission Burial Park South. Mission Park Funeral Chapels South.