Philip Paul, a beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2024, at the age of 78, surrounded by his loving family. His life was a testament to the power of resilience, kindness, and unwavering faith.

 

Born on April 5, 1946, in the vibrant city of Saint Louis-du-Nord, Philip was the son of Marie Fieseus Paul and Exalius Barthelemy, both of whom he tragically never had the chance to know, as they had passed away when he was just a baby. Faced with this profound loss, Philip’s loving grandfather stepped in to become both a mother and a father figure, guiding him with wisdom and care.

 

In 1960, at the tender age of 14, Philip’s grandfather made the difficult decision to send him to the Bahamas, in the hopes of providing him with a better life.

Navigating a new country all alone, without the comfort of family, Philip exhibited exceptional strength of character, learning to fend for himself while never losing his compassionate spirit.

 

Philip’s love for the Lord kept him grounded in Church. His passion for helping others soon became evident, as he leveraged the skills and knowledge bestowed upon him by his grandfather. At the age of 16, he set out to secure his first job, determined to prove his worth despite his young age.

 

While being an independent, strong supporter, motivator and determined person he sought out for work and was hired as a Presser at Jiffy’s and Romeo’s Dry Cleaners. Where he worked faithfully until August of 1989, before he departed to Miami, Florida.

 

It was in 1972 that Philip met the late Sylvia Rolle, and together they welcomed their daughter, Malinda Sweeting, in 1973. Tragically, Malinda passed on 2019, leaving an indelible mark on Philip’s heart.

 

In 1977, Philip’s life took a joyous turn when he met the love of his life, Merril. After a courtship filled with cherished moments, Philip asked for Merril’s hand in marriage, and the two were wed in May of 1979. Their union was blessed with four children: Latasha, Giles, Fritgerald, and Theresa Paul.

 

In 1990, Philip continued his passion on pressing and dry cleaning. In Miami, he obtained a job working at Ed Dry Cleaners. The year of 1992, Philip took a higher stepping stones he started working at 103rd St. Pedro’s Dry Cleaning. After years of full dedication to Pedro and his dry cleaning industry. In 2014, Philip transitioned and ventured to help a friend build his empire in the dry cleaning industry. He started working with Kelly at Rockmoor Dry Cleaners.

 

Philip’s long journey and work ethics unwavering determination, coupled with his kind demeanor, quickly earned him a reputation within his tight-knit community of family, friends, colleagues including strangers.

 

Throughout his life, Philip’s impact extended far beyond his family. He was a pillar to the community, volunteering tirelessly and generously to various charitable causes. From the church, to the neighborhood and family. His compassion and generosity touched the lives of countless individuals, leaving an indelible mark on each and everyones heart who knew him.

 

In his free time, Philip found solace and inspiration in the beauty of the natural world, even cooking a delectable meal. He loved strolling along the beach, swimming, fishing, watching WWF, Monday night madness and enjoying the companies and companionship of friends and family.

 

Always willing to get involved in assisting others. One thing for sure everyone can always say; Philip was a dependable man. His gentle spirit, unwavering optimism, and profound love for life will continue to inspire generations to come.

 

Despite spending much of the last few months in and out of the hospital, he never lost his sense of humor. Throughout his entire journey, he cracked jokes with his grown children, made silly faces with his grandchildren, and even pulled some light-hearted jokes from our child hood memories. He had a great ability to make others smile and his sense of humor will be missed.

 

Philip leaves behind his devoted wife, Merril Paul; daughters, Malinda (Deceased), Latasha Culpepper (Eddy) Aurelien, and Theresa Paul; sons, Giles (Dominique) Paul, Fitzgerald ( Elis) Paul; grandchildren, Lakaoia (deceased), Giovanni Sweeting, Giavanna Sweeting, Giavanya (Jason) Sweeting, Shakaoia Culpepper, Xavier Aurelien, Antonia Pinder, Tayon Kendrick, Nyanna, and Lyric Paul; great-grandchildren, Jaylen Dames, and Javon Griffin; sisters, Carolyn Marshall, Cherlyn (Haddy Sr.) Resias and Joann (Leonard)Rolle; brothers, Stafford (Millie) Ferguson and Kevin (Carol) Ferguson; numerous nephews and nieces, LaKara Marshall, Samantha Delva, LaTara Lloyd, and Keundra Brown; cousin, Margaret Merizier; and a host of cherished family members and friends; all of whom will forever carry his legacy of kindness, compassion, and love in their hearts.