Paul Anthony Monaghan, 74, passed away on July 13, 2026, in Bradenton, FL.
Born February 5, 1952, in Buffalo, NY, Paul was raised in South Buffalo. He was educated at Saint Teresa Parochial School and Bishop Timon High School. His summers were spent at Hanford Bay. He worked security as a bouncer at several Buffalo area establishments in the 1970s, including Mulligan’s Beach Club, The Hotel California, and The Pierce Arrow. These jobs assisted him in funding his degree from Canisius College. His degree and experience resulted in myriad hotel/beverage manager roles across the country.
Paul met the love of his life, Claudia Gardner, and they shared 46 wonderful years building a beautiful life and legacy together. Their journey began in their early years working side-by-side at the El Conquistador Country Club. From there, they stepped into the world of real estate, successfully managing numerous properties as a team. Among these, their absolute labor of love was their cabins in Murphy, North Carolina. Paul was truly the ultimate handyman—a master of his craft who possessed the rare ability to fix absolutely anything.
An avid motorcycle enthusiast, Paul found great joy on the open road. He loved participating in local benefit rides and frequently traveled to North Carolina to ride the legendary Tail of the Dragon. Beyond his adventures, Paul was a deeply loyal person who always made it a priority to keep in touch with his cherished friends.
Paul's memory will be kept alive by his significant other, Claudia Gardner; his stepsons, Bart Gardner (Alicia Taflinger) and Bret Gardner (Jen Inskeep); his sisters, Mary Lou Monaghan (Martin Gable) and Teresa Minton (Jim Minton); and his brother, Timothy Monaghan (Sally Monaghan), along with many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Virginia Monaghan; his sisters, Virginia (Ginger) Hermes and Carol Fagnan; his infant sister, Maureen; and his brothers, John (Sean) Monaghan and Kevin Monaghan.
A Celebration of Life with family will be held in the fall in Murphy, North Carolina.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory,43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
