Paul Adams Runyon, Jr.

PHOENIX – Paul A. Runyon, Jr. died peacefully on October 2, 2023 with his devoted wife Judi and daughter, Aimee by his side; following a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Paul was born on Oct 6, 1940 in Plainfield, New Jersey to Paul A. Runyon, Sr. & Elizabeth Runyon. His parents and older sister Linda preceded him in death and welcomed him as he crossed over.

Paul joined the Navy out of high school, where he met the love of his life Judi Forquer in a military hospital. For the next 61 years he would tell the story of the girl that stole his heart from the moment he saw her. Paul & Judi married in 1962 in Phoenix, AZ and adopted two children, Matthew & Aimee whom they raised in Glendale, AZ.

Paul worked as a Designer Draftsman for Goodyear Aerospace and owned Biff ’s Painting Service. Paul & Judi retired in 1999 moving to Sequim, WA where Paul volunteered at the Dungeness Spit/ Wildlife Refuge and then to Peoria, IL to be close to Judi’s family. Their final move back to Phoenix, AZ came when Paul received his most prized title, that of Grandpa. Amare Warren Runyon, Paul’s grandson, was the light of his life. He taught him how to play basketball and they would share a very special bond until the day he passed. In Paul’s final words, he spoke to Amare whom he said was his very best friend.

Taking after his father, Paul was an exceptional artist who enjoyed woodworking, watercolor, charcoal, metal art, pottery, and photography. He loved the outdoors, fly fishing, hunting, camping, and anything to do with birds. His dream was to fly with Eagles in his next life. Paul was a devoted, life-long Phoenix Suns fan, after attending their first game.

Paul is survived by his wife of 61 years, Judi; their daughter Aimee and her son Amare; their son Matthew, his wife Vicki and their children Tori, Daniel, and Jeremiah.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a future time. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of the Valley.