Paul Lawrence Will

PAUL LAWRENCE WILL, a former long-time resident of Alexandria, on October 8, 2025 at a Veterans hospital in Connecticut at age 62. Born in San Antonio, TX, and raised in St. Louis, MO, he graduated high school at the McCallie School in Chattanooga, TN, later earning a master's degree in international relations from Francis Marion University. Paul had a distinguished 17-year career with the U.S. Army and later worked for the Department of Defense. His last active duty assignment was post-9/11 with the U.S. embassy in Islamabad. An Eagle Scout, Paul's love of the outdoors continued throughout his life and he traveled to every continent except Antarctica. He skied in New Zealand, bungee jumped in Australia, dove the Great Barrier Reef and went on safari in Africa. The camaraderie of his fellow soldiers and earning his jump wings meant a lot to him (his favorite parachute jump was a joint exercise in Norway where they jumped into snow). Paul loved to help people; instantly likable, he made friends easily wherever he went. He became an accomplished cook and enjoyed hosting Beaujolais Nouveau parties for friends and neighbors. He married his beloved wife Barbara in 2001 at Great Falls National Park and their marriage was filled with love and adventure, including beautiful trips to Ireland, Scotland and Germany. He loved photography and music and enjoyed many shows at the Birchmere. His favorite artists were Bob Dylan, the Grateful Dead and Willie Nelson. His little Scottie dog Vita adored him and followed him everywhere. His was a life well lived and he will be missed by all who knew him. Nicely done, Paul, you have earned your wings. He is survived by his wife Barbara Baxter of Connecticut; sister Cathy Adams, brother Steve, and nieces Laura Byron and Jenny Weiss and nephews David and Dan Toll. Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions can be made to McCallie School in Chattanooga. Service private.