Paul Marion Stanback, Sr. born under the warm Florida sun on December 21, 1955, pushing his twin sister Paula out of the way to see the world first, arrived to parents Thomas Stanback and Hazel Maxfield.  He was called home in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on October 26, 2025.

Paul Marion Stanback, Sr. lived a life that could never be described as ordinary.Paul was a firefighter by trade and a firecracker by nature — brave, bold, and always ready to step up when others stepped back. He was charismatic, full of life, and had a knack for lighting up any room (sometimes with charm, sometimes with one of his famously unfiltered opinions).

He was the proud father of four — Paul Stanback Jr., Joshua Stanback, China Coles, and Nicole Webb — and the even prouder grandfather of seven grandkids who adored him. Each one inherited a piece of his spirit, humor, and "keep it real" energy that made him unforgettable.

Paul had a gift for restoration — not just of things, but of people and possibilities. He could take what looked like nothing and turn it into something worth keeping. Whether it was a project in the garage or a person who needed encouragement, Paul saw potential where others saw scrap. Though his health brought him challenges in later years, he faced every battle with courage, grit, and that trademark Paul attitude — a mix of humor, stubbornness, and heart.

He was loved by many, tolerated by a few (mostly the ones he teased the hardest), and respected by everyone who knew what it meant when Paul "kept it real." Because even when he was being a bit of a handful… you always knew it came from a place of honesty and love.

Paul leaves behind his beloved children, grandchildren, and his surviving siblings — His best friend and beloved twin sister Paula, Sebrina, and Auna. Brothers Tony, Andre, and Timothy. Also, 2 Aunts Mary, and Frances— along with a community of friends and family who will miss his laughter, his stories, and his uncanny ability to turn the simplest moment into something memorable.

As Paul would probably say: "Don't make this too sappy — just remember me, raise a glass, and keep it real."

A memorial service will be held on Thursday November 6th, 2025 at 4pm at Word of Truth International Life Center, 3806 Community Rd WS,NC 27107. Friends and family are gathering afterwards at 5065 Butterfield Dr. WS, NC 27105. Accepting food, and gifts to this address as well.