Paul Setlock

1969 - 2024

Paul Setlock, age 55, of Downingtown, Pa., unexpectedly passed away on July 11, 2024, while basking in the natural beauty of an active volcano while traveling with his wife in Sicily atop Mount Etna.

He was born on April 4, 1969, in Pottsville, to the late Paul J. Setlock and Catherine E. McDonald. At a young age, he discovered his love of hunting and the outdoors. He fostered this love by joining the Boy Scouts of America and then achieving the highest recognition as an Eagle Scout. He spent his childhood playing with his siblings, hunting, fishing, karate, traveling, and reading books.

He graduated from Nativity BVM in 1987, then obtained a Bachelor's in English at Penn State University and a Master's in Education at West Chester University. In 1995, while pursuing his bachelor's degree, he met and married the love of his life, Yvonne. He was a devoted husband and father to his wife and three children, whom he loved fiercely. His family was his motivation and fuel for the passions he explored throughout his life. Paul's love of literature flourished during his educational pursuits and empowered him to teach, inspiring new generations while surrounded by his growing family.

He began his career with the Downingtown Area School District in 1996, consistently encouraging his students never to fear being heard or pursuing their dreams. He loved motivating his students to join the theatre program, teaching them the value of gaining confidence on stage and in the classroom. He was recruited for his value as a highly reputable educator through the vital role that he held in the development of an English program at the Downingtown STEM Academy. He worked within the Downingtown Area School district for 28 years, teaching English as a Director of Theatre Arts, the newspaper, and the BSU, creating spaces for students to take charge and find their voice.

Paul's presence had the extraordinary ability to light up a room with his radiant smile and profound insights with the power to touch hearts and challenge mindsets. His philosophical musings and words of wisdom were a guiding light for those fortunate enough to know him. He was a constant contributing member of his hometown as a charter member of the Lone Pine Sportsman Club. He spent his time writing poetry, loving his family, becoming a black belt in Taijutsu, traveling the world, molding the minds of the future, and so much more.

Paul is survived by his wife of 29 years, Yvonne Setlock; children, Hadiya, Michael with wife, Melanie, and Sophia; siblings, Cathy Setlock Cruz, Michael John Setlock, and Tracey Ann Hoffman; a plethora of cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to Paul's Celebration of Life Ceremony. The ceremony will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. on Friday, July 26, at Robert A Evans Jr. Funeral Home in Port Carbon, with visitation. Officiated by Deacon John Setlock at 5 p.m.

Please send condolences to www.robertaevansjrfh.com.