Paul Soper Obituary

Paul William Soper, 95, of Johnsville, Maryland, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and service to all who knew him. Born in Johnsville to Frank and Mildred Ramsburg Soper, Paul was the cherished youngest son and brother to the late Frank and Grayson Soper. Growing up on a family farm, he was the first in his family to graduate from high school, a testament to his determination and drive. Following graduation, Paul proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1950 to 1954 as an aircraft mechanic, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. After his military service, he continued as an aircraft mechanic with Fairchilds in Hagerstown and Glenn L. Martin. Paul then dedicated 30 years of hard work at Lehigh Cement before retiring. He was also well known in the community as "the ice cream man" at Elmer Wolfe Elementary School, where his warm smile and generous spirit brought joy to generations of children. Paul shared 69 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Shirley. Their union was marked by enduring love, devotion, and a steadfast commitment to family. Together they built a home filled with laughter, faith, and care for others. A man of deep faith and kindness, Paul gave freely of his time, resources, and heart. He served faithfully at the Union Bridge Church of the Brethren as Deacon, Head Usher, and member of the Fellowship Committee, where his presence was a blessing to all. Above all, Paul was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He will be remembered as a steady source of love, generosity, and friendship, the truest example of love in action. His family and community are forever better for his life and inspired by his example. Paul is survived by his loving wife, Shirley Soper; daughter, Missi (Paula) and husband Chad Green; granddaughter Nicole and husband Brett Garris; grandsons Jake and wife Sarah Moser, and Jake and wife Brittanni Green; and great-grandchildren Rowen and Quinn Garris, Lacey Moser, and Ash and Avery Green. He is also survived by nephews Paul G. Soper and Michael Soper, and nieces Gina Sneed and Maria Buss. He was preceded in death by niece Lisa Hoy and his brothers Grayson and Frank Soper. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 5 at the Union Bridge Church of the Brethren, with Pastor Scott Linton, officiating. Military interment will follow in Pipe Creek Cemetery. The family will receive friends 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday, September 4 at Hartzler Funeral Home, 6 E. Broadway, Union Bridge. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paul's memory to the Union Bridge Fire Company, P.O. Box 1050, Union Bridge, MD 21791 or Union Bridge Church of the Brethren Fellowship Committee, P.O. Box 518, Union Bridge, MD 21791. A message or memory may be placed on his "tribute wall" at www.hartzlerfuneralhome.com.