Paul Steven Southerland also known as "Buddy" & "Cotton Top"; beloved brother, father, uncle and grandfather died peacefully in his sleep Monday, Dec. 20th at Greenville ECU Medical Center.

His love and obedience to the Lord was never failing, as was his love for family, others, and animals.  Paul loved others more than himself and never met a stranger he couldn't talk to or bring up stories of days long ago.

Paul was a true Civil War historian and never missed an opportunity to educate others on the subject.  He would often tell of his younger years growing up in Duplin County, where he consistently kept things stirred up with his pranks and mischievous behavior.   At the age of seventeen he joined the U.S. Navy and later worked at Camp LeJeune for many years.  His big heart extended in many directions and for many years. He will always be remembered, loved, and missed by everyone. How we long for the day we will meet again.

Graveside Service:

Friday, December 23, 2022

11:00 AM

Island Creek Community Cemetery, Hanchey Road, Wallace, NC

Survivors:

Son:

Tim Crabtree, Candler, NC

Daughter:

Joyce Parris, Brevard, NC

Sister:

Lois Carol Southerland Smith, Chinquapin, NC

Brother:

Cecil Southerland, Panama

Grandchildren:

Melisa Lunsford, Ashlie Buchanan, and Chris Flauto

Community Funeral Home of Beulaville is honored to serve the Southerland Family.