Reverend Paul Force, 101 years old, passed away on February 9, 2024, in his home in Bradenton, FL., surrounded by the arms of his Lord. Paul was known to always have a huge smile on his face. His late wife, Helen, always said that he has never met a stranger. Born in Madison, NJ, he later joined the service and met his soon to be wife at the USO in 1943. He then proudly served in WWII as Platoon leader drill Seargent of chemical and anti-gas warfare, and later joined the "Mighty" 8th Army Air Corp in Northern France.
After getting married when returning from the war, he worked for several years in trucking and mining. He moved to Miami in 1949 and began a higher education at University of Miami. In 1950, Paul received his calling into ministry. He then completed his Seminary studies at Converse, Columbia, and Virginia Union universities. His first church assignment was in Tazewell, Va. in 1955. After moving to South Florida in 1961,
Paul served in many churches in Miami and Ft. Lauderdale until his retirement. During this time, he achieved many accomplishments in serving the Lord. Everybody loved him. He helped and loved so many people. Another meaningful and rewarding service was being the Florida Wing Chaplain in the Civil Air Patrol for 28 years. He also served in Bradenton at First Presbyterian Church in 1973. After retiring from Miami, he spent 7 years in the Florida Keys. He then moved to Bradenton and served as a Parish Associate and Interim Pastor at Whitfield Presbyterian since 1993.
Paul was predeceased by his beautiful wife, Helen, who was his life partner for over 70 years. He is survived by his children Sandy (Don) Mullis of Hilton Head, S.C., Paul Jr. (Kristy) Force of Tallahassee, FL, and Gregory Force and Edie Force (Butch) Van Ostenbridge of Bradenton, FL. Also 10 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. He was also predeceased by two brothers, Edward Force Jr. (1951) and William Force (1953). He was predeceased by his beloved sister, Beryl Force (1986). Uncle Paul and Aunt Helen subsequently played a significant role in the lives of her children Doug (Marisa) Brown, Vicky (Steve) Mularz, Laura (Philippe) Metoudi, and Yvonne Force (Leo) Villareal and their families.
Celebration of Life services will be held 1 PM Saturday, March 23, 2024, at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton Fl 34209.
