Paul was born on August 21, 1958, in Mt. Pleasant, Utah, to Donald Blain Shelley and Lenore Alice (Beal) Shelley. He was one of eleven children and grew up surrounded by a large family in Utah. He graduated from North Sanpete High School in 1976 before attending Snow College, where he earned an Associate in Science degree in 1982 and graduated as Valedictorian of his class. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Brigham Young University, graduating in 1985.

Although his education was in chemical engineering, Paul’s passion for technology led him to a successful career as a Software Analyst. Gifted with a sharp mind and a natural aptitude for computers, he was known for his intelligence, problem-solving abilities, and willingness to help others. Whether troubleshooting a computer problem or tackling a difficult challenge, Paul was often the person family, friends, and coworkers turned to for guidance.

On August 1, 1980, Paul married the love of his life, Cynthia Anne Stephen, in Manti, Utah. Together they shared nearly 46 years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, faith, and family. They welcomed three children into their lives and were blessed with five grandchildren, all of whom brought Paul tremendous pride and joy. His family was the center of his world, and he treasured every moment spent with them.

Those who knew Paul will remember him as an easygoing, patient, and genuinely kind man. He had a calm presence that put others at ease and approached life with quiet thoughtfulness, humility, and compassion. His kindness extended far beyond his immediate family. Paul believed that family was built on love as much as biology, and he welcomed others into his home with an open heart. Whether offering guidance, support, or simply a listening ear, he gave generously without expecting anything in return. His quiet acts of kindness touched many lives and remain one of his greatest legacies.

Paul found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially taking peaceful walks through local parks. An avid reader, he could often be found immersed in the pages of science fiction, particularly the works of Douglas Adams and Isaac Asimov. He had a lifelong fascination with history and loved learning about historical events, world cultures, and the people who shaped them. He also enjoyed watching documentaries and could happily spend hours watching DIY projects on YouTube, always interested in learning how things worked and how they were made. His curiosity and love of learning never faded.

Paul will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his beloved wife, Cynthia

Shelley of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; his son, Paul Shelley Jr. and wife, Felicia; his daughter, Alicia; his son, Brandon; his grandchildren, Trent, Austin, Riley, Victoria, and Vlad; his mother, Lenore Shelley; and his siblings, Rawlin, Myrna, Coy, Carl, Calvin, Marie, Ellen, and Dawn.

He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Blain Shelley, and his sisters, Jeanette Irene Shelley and Debra Shelley.

Paul’s legacy is one of kindness, patience, quiet strength, unwavering integrity, and unconditional love for his family. He will be remembered not only for his brilliant mind and lifelong curiosity, but also for the gentle way he treated others and the generosity with which he lived his life. Though he will be greatly missed, the love he shared, the wisdom he passed on, and the memories he created will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

“A life so gently lived leaves a lasting imprint on the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.”