William "Bill" Paulis

Paulis, William (Bill) 1930- 2025

Of Jackson, MI passed away peacefully on Sunday December 28th, 2025, in the comfort of his bed.  He was 95 years old. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather and great grandfather.

William Paulis was born on November 2nd, 1930, in Akron, OH. Preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Elizabeth Paulis and his brother Richard Paulis. He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Sara (Sally), by his two sisters, Mary Ellen and Susan and his children, Sara (Sally) Beck, Michael Paulis (Sue), Amy Minor (Dennis), and Ken Paulis. He is also survived by his five grandchildren and his six great grandchildren.

A devoted husband, proud grandfather, and a lifelong sportsman for the outdoors and competition, he loved all sports, with special enthusiasm for fishing, hunting, football, and above all, baseball. His athletic talents shined at East Akron High School in Ohio, where he was recognized as an exceptional athlete and leader amongst his peers.

Following high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy. During his time of service, his athletic abilities continued to stand out as he became a star athlete on the football and baseball teams, earning admiration and respect from teammates and coaches alike.
After completing his military service, he returned home and moved to Jackson, MI where he built a long successful career at Goodyear, working as a supervisor for more than 35 years. His strong work ethic, integrity, and leadership left a lasting impression on those who worked alongside him.

At the center of his life was his beloved wife, Sally, whom he adored deeply. For 73 wonderful years, they built a life full of love, laughter, and shared adventures. She was his constant, his partner, and his greatest joy. Together, they fulfilled a dream of buying a farm with an apple orchard north of Jackson, where they raised their family and built a home. An avid outdoorsman, he found peace in fishing, hunting, and playing the sports, he loved—but even then, his thoughts were never far from his Sally. They loved dancing together at their dance clubs, enjoying music and each other's company long after the years had passed. Whether it was stories brought home from a day of outdoors or plans made side-by-side, their lives were inextricably intertwined.

In later years, "Pop" as the grandchildren and great grandchildren referred to him as, rarely missed a sporting event. He could be found in the stands or along the sidelines supporting each child with enthusiasm and wisdom. His legacy is one of devotion- to his country, his family, and most of all, his Sally. Their story, built over 73 years, will continue to live on through the generations they raised together.

The family would like to thank the staff at Jackson County Medical Care Facility for their care and support.

A mass will be said in his honor at St. John's Church on January 18th at 12PM.  According to his wishes, he will be laid to rest at Fort Custer Veteran's Cemetery, west of Battle Creek, Friday May 15th at 2:30PM. The family welcomes anyone who can attend.