J. Paul Runion, 74, was born Jan. 5, 1950 in Long Beach, New Jersey and passed away Sept. 2, 2024 in Raleigh, North Carolina after a prolonged illness.
Paul is survived by his two children, son Aaron (Suzanne) Runion of Murphy, North Carolina and his daughter Jennifer Runion of Sidney; along with his grandchildren Ryan Runion, Paige Goodspeed, Lily Runion, Cole Goodspeed, Jack Runion and Elizabeth Goodspeed as well as a nephew, several nieces, cousins and many friends.
Paul was predeceased by his parents, Jack and Ruth (Enslin) Runion along with his older brothers Wayne and Barry.
Paul was a long-time employee of Breakstones in Walton, and was involved in the UFCW Local One Labor Union for many years, even serving as chief steward. Paul retired in 2011 and then moved to Angier, North Carolina to get away from New York winters. Paul was an avid golfer who looked forward to his yearly golf trips traveling all over the East Coast with friends and colleagues. Paul could also be found fly fishing around Walton in his yearly years and bowling in his later years Angier.
Paul will be missed by many and will be remembered by his stories, especially those that started off with “True Story.” Paul could be found at the Royale Oasis most weekends, helping with steak dinners and clambakes that the club was popular for amongst their members. Paul also had a Thursday coffee group of friends in Angier the last few years that he looked forward to.
Per the families’ wishes, there will not be funeral services. Paul will be buried alongside his parents in the Schuyler Lake Cemetery in Schuyler Lake.
The family would like to extend their thanks to the R.M. Ferguson Funeral Services in Raleigh, North Carolina for their understanding and compassion during this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Heart Association or the National Kidney Foundation would be appreciated.
