Paul Edwin Skillern Sr., was born January 1, 1944 in Longview, Texas to the parentage of Earnest Skillern and Willie Lou Anderson ( Tolen), who was raised by Frank Toler. He attended Floydada Public Schools and later moved to Tyler, Texas where he graduated from high school. He later moved to Dallas, Texas where he graduated from Bishop College with a B.A. Degree in Business in May 1970.

Paul met his wife Emeria, a God given helpmate and was united in marriage to her on October 8, 1966. The union was blessed with 3 children, grandchildren, and 1 great grandchild.

Paul served in the US Army as a Medical Specialist. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal Expert (M-14). He later joined the US National Guard where he received numerous award.

He recently retired from performing supervisory duties with Homeland Security after 38 years of service in August 2017. While there he helped many, mentored and made many friends along the way. He enjoyed attending events at TBAAL with his daughter, Anita shooting pool with his tall boys, PJ & j. He really got a kick out of watching sports events with his wife-with all of those snacks. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, family and friends. He loved his New Mt- Moriah Church family and served until he just couldn't any longer. He truly believed in live and let live because we all need forgiveness.

He was preceded in death by his parents Earnest Skillern Sr., Willie Lou Skillern and Frank Toler. Paul leaves to cherish his memories his wife Emeria, daughter Anita, son Paul Jr. and Jerrard. Grandchildren Kenni, Kendall, T ahauya, Jaylen, Kennady-Kellie, Jordyn, Jaya, Brooklyn, and great-grandson Josiah. Brothers Troy (Hirmma), Earnest (Lizzie), Larry (Sandra, deceased), Calvin (Nanette) Lee ( Dora), Embrey ( Denese) Herman Harris, Kelvin (Minnie), Willie (Dedra), and O'Neal Harris. Sisters Sandra (Waverly), Gloria ( deceased), Minnie Ross, Frankie Jones( deceased), Elnora Toler, Wanda Ross and Patrina Pinkerton( Gary), Special Sister Gwen Crawford Bullock, Martha Richardson Special Daughter Andrea Curtis Richardson Special Son DeBouens Mitchell , Special Brother Reginald Palmer and a host of nieces and nephews, and other relatives and friends who will miss him greatly.