Paul Edward Motley, born on December 1, 1933, in Savanna, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025, at Coleman County Medical Center in Coleman, Texas. He was a man of great character, known for his bright and artistic personality, which shone through in both his personal and professional life.
Paul proudly served in the United States Air Force for over 22 years, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant before retiring on February 28, 1975. His military service took him and his family to many locations, including New Hampshire and Japan, and it was during these years that he cultivated lasting friendships and created cherished memories. Following his retirement from the Air Force, Paul transitioned into a fulfilling career in maintenance at the Abilene State School before retiring again as a locksmith.
An accomplished artist, Paul had a passion for drawing and wood carving. He expressed his creativity through various mediums, including paintings, carvings, and animated cartoons, leaving behind a legacy that reflects his vibrant spirit.
Paul married Wanda Wilson on February 25, 1957, at Novice Methodist Church, where he remained a devoted member throughout his life. Together, they built a loving family, which became one of his proudest accomplishments. Paul is survived by his loving wife, Wanda Motley of Novice; their children, Charles Motley of New River, Arizona, James “Red” Motley and wife Rhonda of Bangs, Larry “Butch” Motley and wife Staci of Azle, and Matthew Scott Motley and wife Stacey of Novice. He deeply loved and adored his grandchildren, C.J. Motley, Carl Franklin, Forest Motley, Kristopher Motley, Elle Motley, Avery Motley, Zach Burr, and Hagan Motley, along with two great-grandchildren, Noelle Ferrer and Wyatt Motley. Paul is also remembered fondly by his sister, Mildred McClain of McAlester, Oklahoma.
Paul is reunited in heaven with his parents, Jewel Motley and Opal Decker Motley; his daughter, Kimberly Ann Motley; two grandchildren, Blake Allen Motley and Christopher James Motley; and his brothers, Danny Boy Motley and Lloyd Motley.
He will be deeply missed, not only by his family but by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
The family will host a visitation from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel. Family and friends are invited to a funeral service celebrating his remarkable life at 11:00 am Thursday, October 9, 2025, at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Greg Oberg, pastor at Novice Methodist Church, officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in the Rough Creek Cemetery. Services are entrusted to Stevens Funeral Home, 400 W. Pecan Street, in Coleman.
Memorials are requested with gratitude to Novice Methodist Church, C/O Sue Shields, 699 County Road 429, Novice, Texas 79538 or to Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.
We invite you to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Motley family by signing the guestbook on Paul’s tribute page at www.stevensfuneralhome.com. Stevens Funeral Home is honored to serve the Motley family.
