Deacon Paul Henry McIlwaine ,Sr. 97 of Charlotte, NC. passed away May 5, 2017 at his residence. Funeral service will be held Saturday May 13, 2017 at Greater Galilee Baptist Church 501 W. Park Ave. Charlotte, NC 28208. Visitation will begin at 11:00 am and the service will follow at 12:00 pm. Interment will be at Sunset Memory Gardens.
For ninety-seven (97) years God allowed Deacon Paul H. McIlwaine (affectionately called Daddy, Papa, and Shine), to tabernacle with us. On Friday, May 5, 2017 at 11:10 A.M., he peacefully exchanged time here on earth for eternal life, at the home of his care providers, (daughter and son in law), Naomi and Willie Washington surrounded by his loving family. Paul was the last survivor of ten (10) children born to the late Paul and Margaret McIlwaine on June 13, 1919, in Lancaster, SC.
He was educated in the Lancaster County Public School System. He was gainfully employed in various areas that expanded throughout North and South Carolina. He was not afraid of work or getting his hands dirty. He provided for his family by doing whatever he deemed necessary. Paul considered it a blessing and thanked God for providing for his family. He proudly served in The United States Army and was a World War 1 veteran.
He loved the Lord, and served him in spirit and truth. His spiritual walk with the Master began at an early age when he joined his family at The United House of Prayer for All People. He later joined the Galilee Baptist Church on Nations Ford Rd. and remained faithful through transitions to May St, and later 501 W. Park Ave. (Greater Galilee Baptist Church), where he was the oldest male member. In 2012 he was crowned ‘King” of the church. Deacon McIlwaine was an active faithful Deacon, honorary member of the Musical Choir, Church School, Men of Purpose Bible Study, and former Wednesday Night Prayer Service. His bass voice rang out singing his favorite songs, “Do you know The Man from Galilee”, and “Roll Jordan Roll”. His love for singing allowed him to be a part of a quartet group with other members of Greater Galilee called, “The Voices of Harmony.”
Daddy as he was called by many who knew and loved him, enjoyed playing dominoes, watching baseball and fishing. He found much joy in going to the YMCA on Davidson St. Where he was the oldest member, being a part of the senior group called, “The Hut”, and fellowshipping with Tracy, Patricia, Kim and the other seniors for 13 years. He loved cooking and found great joy in helping and serving others,(all of this is evident if you have ever visited 4016 Bearwood Ave.), where the greatest hospitality was extended to any and all who visited, “You didn’t leave hungry or empty handed.”
Paul was married to the late Sarah Simmons McIlwaine (Honey) who preceded him in death in 2001, they were blessed with nine (9) children, two preceding him in death; Ms. Mary Alice Guinn, and Mrs. Vivian Washington. Left to carry on his legacy and in possession of his love and memories are his sons: Mr. Paul McIlwaine, Jr. (Margaret), Mr. Howard McIlwaine (Carolyn), daughters: Ms. Sarah Long, Mrs. Cynthia Leung (Phillip), Mrs. Naomi Washington (Willie), Mrs. Geraldine Coleman (Elbert), and Mrs. Ella Howard (Frank). A godson, Mr. Jack Bradford (Elaine). A goddaughter, Mrs. Agnes Nash (Samuel), A devoted granddaughter, Mrs. Tracy Robinson (Mitch), a special nephew, Mr. Michael Pauling (Sylvia), (32) Thirty-two grandchildren, Forty-seven (47) great grandchildren, Forty-two (42) great-great grandchildren, Five (5) great-great-great grandchildren as well as other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. His domino partners, Mr. Walter Pauling and Mr. Robert Johnson.
We are comforted today by the words of 2 Timothy, because we know Daddy was ready to be offered, and the time of his departure was at hand, he truly fought a good fight, finished his course and kept the faith. Sleep on Daddy and take your well-deserved rest we all love you, but God loves you best. We will miss you, we are so thankful for all the precious memories you left for us to cherish.
