James Wesley Paul, age 70, of Okolona , passed from this life on Wednesday, March 30, 2016 at his residence surrounded by all his loved ones. He was born November 6, 1945 in Laurinburg , North Carolina , the son of the late Wesley Ammons and Margaret McCormick Paul. James was a floor covering installer and former Mayor of Okolona. He was a member of Smynra United Methodist Church. James proudly served his country in the United States Army during Vietnam . He enjoyed Fishing and Hunting. James is preceded in death by his parents and one sister Rita Glover.

James is survived by his wife Betty Paul of Okolona , his two daughters Sandy (Joe) Parry of Meridian MS and Christine ( Chad ) Tucker of Okolona. Five grandchildren, Zack (Hanna) Parry, Samantha and Matthew Parry and Koty and Harley Tucker.

The Family will receive friends on Saturday April 2 between 2:00 and 4:00 PM at the Okolona Community Center in Okolona with Bro. Charlie Williams officiating.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Arkansas Children's Hospital 800 Marshall Street Little Rock Arkansas 72202.

Final arrangements are entrusted to the Welch Funeral Home of Arkadelphia. Visit www.welchfh.net to sign the online guest book.