James Ronald Paul—known to many as James, Ron, JP, or Unko Ron—entered this world just days before the end of 1959 and chose to depart a few days into 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer. He lived a life defined by love and adventure; when he eventually opted for comfort care, he did so with “no regerts.”

The youngest child of Howard and Flossie Paul, Ron was born in Trenton, Michigan, and raised in Williamsburg, Kentucky. He cherished his upbringing in the foothills of Appalachia, where he was free to be a wild and adventurous boy. He especially loved the deep connection and quality time he spent with his Dad. It was during those private moments that Ron received the eternal life lessons and wisdom he would share with so many over the years.

After graduating from Whitley County High School, Ron enlisted in the United States Air Force. During his time at Norton AFB, he developed lifelong friendships and mastered skills as a heavy equipment operator and truck driver before receiving an honorable discharge.

Following his military service, Ron lived in Arizona, Georgia, and Kentucky. During this time, he was blessed to become a father to his daughter, DeAnna Owens. He eventually moved to Hawai’i to work for his brother, John, and it was there—at the Kamehameha Hotel pool bar in Kona—that he met his wife, Crystal. What began as a potential summer fling blossomed into a 35-year marriage full of soulful love. Together, they enjoyed sitting at the beach playing dominoes, eating plate lunches, and sharing a Steinlager or Heineken while listening to music. Ron loved his "hillbilly music" just as much as he loved singing in ‘ōlelo Hawai’i.

After being struck by a drunk driver, the couple relocated to Texas. There, they built and operated a successful aquarium service company before selling the business to purchase a Peterbilt. Ron was back to doing what he loved as a professional truck driver when he was diagnosed with cancer.

Ron was a passionate supporter of all things Hawaiian. He was a man of many hobbies, including scuba diving, snorkeling, grilling steaks, riding Harleys, camping, playing poker, glass blowing, and enjoying fine cigars and good bourbon. He was also a proud member of the Patriot Guard Riders.

Celebration of Life Services

● Texas: Noon, Saturday, June 6, 2026 – Isle DuBois, Ray Roberts Lake, Pilot Point

● Kentucky: Noon, Saturday, June 13, 2026 – Briar Creek Park, Williamsburg

Ron is survived by his wife, girlfriend, and mistress of 35 years, Crystal Tina Keahipio’oleokalani Kia-Paul; his daughter, DeAnna (Audrey Sauer) Owens; and his fur children: Izabella (Izzy), Will, Morgan, Trucker, and Bobo.

He is also survived by his mother-in-love, Beatrice Kia; great-aunt, Rosie Harris; sister, Wilma (Jerry) Croley; brother, Charles (Debbie) Paul; sister-in-love, Jean Paul; and brother-in-love, Frankie (Keala) Kia.

Nieces and Nephews:Jeanie (Kyle) Hanrahan, Phillip (Tira) Partin, Randi (Jeff) Gibson, Misti (Shane) Gray, Justin (Shea) Paul, Allen Paul, Ken Owens, Pam (Jody) McMurray, Josh (Missy) Paul, Martika (Jason) Rountree, Masahiro Kia, Robbie Kia, Noah Kia, Gabrielle Kia, Brooklyn Kia, and Tannerlee Lewis, along with many great and great-great nieces and nephews.

Ron is survived by many friends and family members.

Special Mahalo: A special mahalo to the ‘Ohana Kia and Nae’ole, David and Jolene Kohlschmidt, Shane Nelsen, and Ka’iwi and Sue Ah Hee

Preceded in Death by: His parents, Howard Edward Paul and Flossie Paul; father-in-love, Albert Ainoa Kia; brother, John J. Paul; niece, Jessica L. Paul; and many other ‘ohana and friends.

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In Lieu of Flowers, Please consider a donation in Ron’s name to:

Ho’ala Kealekekua Nui, Inc.

PO Box 1301 Kealakekua, HI 96750 www.kealakekua.org

Very dear to Ron, this nonprofit manages conservation for the marine life in Kealakekua Bay, Hawai’i. If you choose to donate through the website, please include "Unko Ron" in the comments section.