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Paul L. Hartsfield

About

Emory University

FUNERAL HOME

Heath Funeral Chapel & Crematory

328 South Ingraham Avenue

Lakeland, Florida

Paul Hartsfield Obituary

PAUL L. HARTSFIELD, 81 Minister LAKELAND - Dr. Paul L. Hartsfield, age 81, died, March 9, 2007 at Carpenter's Home Estates from Parkinson's disease. Dr. Hartsfield was a native Floridian, born in Gainesville and raised in Bronson. He served in the United States Navy during World War II, flying PBY planes in the South Pacific and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. After the war, he received his bachelor's degree from Emory University and went on to receive his master's from Candler School of Theology. Within his ministry, he was also awarded an honorary doctorate from Florida Southern College. Dr. Hartsfield served faithfully for 55 years within the Florida United Methodist Conference serving churches throughout the state. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Hartsfield, Lakeland; three sons, Philip of Hays, Kansas; Stephen of Enterprise, FL; Matthew of Tampa, FL; and 6 grandchildren. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 17, 2007 at First United Methodist Church of Lakeland. In Lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Florida United Methodist Children's Home, 51 Main St., Enterprise, FL 32725. Arrangements made by Heath Funeral Chapel. Heath Funeral Chapel www.heathfuneralchapel.com

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Published by The Ledger from Mar. 14 to Mar. 15, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Paul Hartsfield

16 Entries

Kendall Hinshaw

March 30, 2007

Rev. Hartsfield was my father's D.S. (District Superintendent) when he served at FUMC, Sarasota, FL in the late '70s. His entire family were good friends of my family. His sense of humor, and love of family and friends will be greatly missed.

Carlyle Hughes

March 19, 2007

The family of Elizabeth Sale Hughes Would like send our thoughts and prayers to Paul's family. Paul was always a source of joy for Lib.
Love, Carlyle Hughes

Karen Anderson

March 18, 2007

Dr. Paul was my pastor at 2 different churches - one in St. Petersburg and one in Sarasota. I can't tell you how thrilled I was when I moved to Sarasota and found him here. He had a very special gift. My condolences to his family.

Jim Carter

March 17, 2007

Virginia, sons and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. It is a wonderful gift to always have...ones experience and friendship with Paul. Carolyn Meetze and Jim Carter

J.Don & Vonda Johnson

March 16, 2007

Paul the Man-a pastor, teacher and friend who was always ready to respond no matter what the call. He was a godly man who has impacted our lives and who has left us with us a legacy of qualities that distinguish him from all others. His devotion, convictions, compassion and love will remain with us always.

Joleen Wilkinson

March 16, 2007

Paul's spirit is so kind and gracious. I'm sure it is still among us. He was always such a support to me in all my endeavors, and was truly one of the most forward thinking pastors I have met. My thoughts are with the Hartsfield family and First Church.

Rev Donald Roberts

March 15, 2007

Virginia and sons and family: Peg and I send our Love and join you in celebrating the life, Love and ministry of our friend and colleague Paul. 30 years ago when we were first appointed to the ministry of Goodwill here in Sarasota, Paul called and said that Miakka Church was in desperate need of a preacher the next sunday and he didn't know of a more desperate preacher than I was. From that funny start to our 30 year friendship, the Hartsfields have been fellow travelers in the Grace of God. We love you all and know that God is continuing Paul's creation. Being born again is what Paul has been doing all his creation. Go Paul Go.

Rev. Don and Peg Roberts

Carol Decker

March 15, 2007

Thanking the LORD for taking Paul home, we are forever grateful for his friendship, wisdom and teaching. I can almost hear him whistling a hymn (and singing in tune) as he is walking with Jesus.

Donna & Donald Layser

March 14, 2007

Dear Loved Ones: Thanking God for Pastor Paul's life and the many ways he shared his Love of the Lord from Bible Study to Worship. Sharing his faith by word and deed was a true Witness that if one Believes and has a Personal Relationship with God nothing is impossible. Praying with you as you look towards Heaven and Know Pastor Paul is resting in the arms of Jesus

Joan & Joe Stein

March 14, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers are with you Virginia and your family. Pauls' passing leaves a void in our hearts which is soothed by knowing he is with our Heavenly Father. We will miss his presence as a friend & neighbor. God bless all of you.

Debi Richardson

March 14, 2007

"My Paul" joins me in sending our heartfelt condolences to you, Virginia, as "Your Paul" takes his place with his Lord. Your boys have long been men, and may they continue to bring you peace and comfort now and for the future. Your family remains in our thoughts and prayers.

Wil Mick

March 14, 2007

The life and times of Rev. Hartsfield touched many lives in personal and profound ways including marrying my wife and I 20 years ago. He will always be remembered as a devout man who cherished life and many, many friends. His dynamic style in the pulpit remains the best I have ever seen. He was a lovely and magnetic man and will always be remembered.

Erica Jayne Dahlquist

March 14, 2007

Rev. Hartsfield was a loving man and I will always remember the support and love he provided throughout my life. He was my Minister, Mentor and friend. My prayers go out to the entire Hartsfield family and esp. to Virginia.

Brenda Cruise-Boulos

March 14, 2007

Our sincere condolences to all the family and friends of Dr. Paul L. Hartsfield. He was a long-time friend to both my husband and me. We appreciated his insight, support and humor, and always looked forward to our chats when we visited Florida after moving to Egypt. We were among the many whose lives I'm sure have been touched by Dr. Hartsfield. May God rest his soul and grant comfort to those who cherish his memory.

Patti Coe

March 14, 2007

Matthew,
I am so sorry to hear about your father's passing. But I know you have great comfort in knowing that he's with Jesus, and in perfect health again. Please give my condolences to your mother. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Take care.

Love in Christ,
Patti

Austin Bryant

March 14, 2007

May God Bless your Family at this time and forever more.

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