November 1, 2023, 72, Snow Hill —
Paul Staps, born August 10, 1951, was a devoted husband to his best friend and beautiful wife: Lorretta. A Daddy to his three girls: Tania Staps, Rachael Toler (son-in-law David Toler), and Paula Smith (son-in-law Kenny Wayne Smith II). A Papa to his seven grandsons: Brandon Toler and Trey, Joey, Dominic, Kameron, Landonn, and Gabriel Kayne Smith, and his favorite granddaughter: Katelyn Toler. An uncle to many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. A Child of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords: Jesus Christ. If you have ever had the privilege to know Paul, you had the honor of sharing laughter. One thing he loved to do was tell jokes, watch cowboy shows, and talk about Jesus.
Originally from Goldsboro NC, Paul was the second born to Max and Minnie Lee Staps. His eldest brother, Hans, and he were known as the tricksters but they were loved by all. Paul followed in his daddy’s trade of welding: Goldsboro Welding Shop, NC Salvage, Heavy Duty, APV, AAR, and even taught welding classes at Wayne Community College.
He met the love of his life at Mason’s parking lot on William St. as he went to get the number of another girl and she Hollered, “You don’t want her number.” To which he replied, “I’ll take yours, then.” Paul and Lorretta married on May 2, 1971. He was medically discharged from the National Guard on May 10, 1971, but his patriotism never ceased for the men and women in uniform. He worked alongside his father until his passing in 1974.
Paul and Lorretta enjoyed 52 1/2 years of love and laughter, even hard times along with the good. During each season of his life, Paul exhibited the joy of the Lord and how to ultimately lean into the nail-scarred hands. His heart was full with his three little girls: Tania, Rachael, and Paula. Paul gave his life to the Lord in 1971. He was a proud member of Faith Free Will Baptist Church. Paul was very proud of his 3 nephews and their families: Hans, Hansen, and Shelby Marie Staps, Max, Sherry, Jalen, Maddie Staps, and Eric Staps.
On November 1, 2023, Paul was sitting at his favorite place, doing his favorite thing: sitting on the couch, eating dinner prepared by his lovely wife’s hands, and watching one of his favorite cowboy shows. He took his last breath on this side and released it at the prepared table from His Father’s hands.
The family will gather on Sunday, November 5, 2023, between the hours of 4:30 pm and 5:45 pm at Faith Free Will Baptist Church in Goldsboro to receive friends and family. At 6:00 pm Rev. Christian Powell will lead family and friends in a celebration of Paul’s life in the Sanctuary of Faith Free Will Baptist Church. A committal service will be held Monday, November 6th at 11:00 am at the Snow Hill City Cemetery.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials be directed to
Gideons Goldsboro South Camp
PO Box 509
Goldsboro, NC 27530
Online condolences can be directed to the Staps family at www.shumate-faulk.com
Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Staps family.
