Paul Rathbun Death – Has Died: It is with immense sadness that we must inform you of the sudden passing of our agency President, Paul Rathbun. Paul was the glue that held us all together.
He was smart, patient and most of all a kind man. There is a hole in our collective heart that will never be repaired but we will move forward with his legacy at the forefront of everything we do.
Visitation and funeral services are currently being planned and we will be updating everyone with more details as they are confirmed.
In his honor, we would love to hear your memories of Paul. He helped so many people over the years and made an eternal mark on not only our agency but this community.
Thank you for all of your support during these difficult times.
No cause of death confirmed yet, as no health issues or other causes of death have been learned to be associated with the passing.
This death has caused a lot of friends and family of Rathbun so much hurt. It is in that mourning spirit that the concerned persons have taken to social media to share tributes to the deceased and condolences to the affected family.
Tributes To Paul Rathbun
Across social media users’ timelines are statements that show respect, admiration, and gratitude towards Rathbun as people mourn the passing.
I have no words, friends. None. Within three days, the loss of Ben Capshaw and Uncle Paul – pivotal pieces of our family. Men who were friends, mentors, brothers, and who stepped in the last three years after the loss of dad. Men who were loved by hundreds in their communities. Both are so sudden. Both cutting so so deep.
These words from Psalm 77 accurately describe where I am right now:
“I cried out to God for help; I cried out to God to hear me.
When I was in distress, I sought the Lord; at night I stretched out untiring hands, and I would not be comforted.
I remembered you, God, and I groaned;
I meditated, and my spirit grew faint.
You kept my eyes from closing; I was too troubled to speak.
My heart meditated and my spirit asked: Will the Lord reject forever? Will he never show his favor again?
Has his unfailing love vanished forever? Has his promise failed for all time?
Has God forgotten to be merciful? Has he in anger withheld his compassion?”
Words are failing me. If they aren’t failing you, would you cry out to God on behalf of Amanda, Issac, and Noah Capshaw? Will you call out for Cat, Sam, Ben, and the rest of the Rathbun family?
The second half of this verse proclaims the truth of who God is. Even though I feel weary, even though the word exhaustion doesn’t begin to describe the state we’re in, I believe with everything left in me that my God is still good. Still on the throne. Still worthy of my trust and surrender and still so so worthy of praise.
Oh, how I long for heaven. How thankful I am that this is not my home.
“Then I thought, To this I will appeal: the years when the Most High stretched out his right hand.
I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.
I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.
Your ways, God, are holy. What god is as great as our God?”
I am angry. I am sad. I am confused. But..I am certain. And I am hopeful. And I am ready to go home to Jesus.
Until then – pressing on in the fight.
We may not have been related by blood but we were definitely family. When you lose someone you’ve worked with 8 hours a day, 5 days a week for 20 years, it hits you pretty hard. Not only was Paul Rathbun one of THE HARDEST workers I’ve ever met but he was kind, caring, and had a great sense of humor. I’m honored to have known him and learned so much from him. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Rathbun family. He will truly be missed. R.I.H.
We are saddened by the death of long time Ele’s Place – Capital Region supporter, Paul Rathbun. Paul served on our Board, attended and sponsored many of our events and advocated for our mission. He will be warmly remembered and deeply missed. We hope you will join us in keeping Paul’s family, friends, and all who loved him on your mind and in your hearts.