Paul James Depue

Paul James Depue, age 95, of Gardners, PA, finished his life on earth on September 3rd, 2023. He was born to Ogden and Rena Depue on March 21, 1928, in Franklin Forks, PA, into a farming family as one of 11 children.

Paul graduated from High School in Montrose, PA, in 1946, having there met his first wife of 66 years, Elynor Wilcox Depue. They both attended and graduated from the Mansfield State Teachers College, after which they were married on June 6th, 1951. Paul began teaching High School Math and Science, as well as pursuing and completing a Master’s degree and additional Doctoral level studies in Mathematics.  For 30-plus years he was a Math Professor at Cortland State University. His role there, in addition to classroom instruction, included enhancing and overseeing the student teacher program.

At the center of Paul’s vigorous life has been a settled faith in Jesus Christ as Savior, commitment to obeying the Bible, and the ministry of daily prayer. He lived and shared his faith with anyone and in any setting. His involvement in local churches included teaching Adult Sunday School, visitation in homes, and serving at various times as a Deacon, Treasurer, and Sunday School Superintendent. Paul and Elynor were one of several couples who, in the mid-1970’s, helped start the Grace Baptist Church in Tully, NY. Over the years Paul participated in church building projects in New York State, and took multiple international missions trips, often with his grandchildren. Closer to home, Paul and Elynor opened their hearts and home to several individuals in times of need, and over extended periods of time.

Paul was pre-deceased by his first wife, Elynor. He is survived by his second wife, Barbara Hoffman Depue, having enjoyed a happy union of 2 ½ years. He is also survived by his children, James (Anne) Depue of Gardners, PA, Karna (Randy) Hoffman of Dillsburg, PA, Timothy (Valerie) Depue of Kansas City, MO, and Gary (Linda) Depue of Preble, NY; 21 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren; and one sibling, Esther (Dick) Camp of Laceyville, PA.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday, September 16th at the Grace Bible Chapel, 5575 Oxford Rd, Gardners, PA, with calling hours at 9:30 AM, the service at 10:30 AM, and a luncheon to follow in the fellowship hall. In addition, a graveside service is planned on the same date at the Franklin Forks, PA Cemetery at 4:30 PM. All are welcome to either or both. Any gifts in memory of Paul can be designated to the Grace Bible Chapel for Missions.

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