Malcolm Otis Paul

Malcolm Otis Paul, lovingly known as "Bubba," passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026 in Foley, Alabama at the age of 89. Born on March 31, 1937, in Stockton, Alabama, Malcolm spent most of his childhood in Magnolia Springs, where he developed a lifelong passion for music and a deep-rooted faith that would guide him throughout his life. In 1955, Malcolm moved to Michigan to attend Owosso Bible College. It was there that he met Betty Burgess, the love of his life. The two were married in Pontiac, Michigan in 1957 and began a journey together that spanned nearly seven decades. After spending several years in Mason, Michigan, Malcolm returned to Alabama with his family in 1974. They settled in Foley in 1978, where he would spend the remainder of his life. Malcolm was a man of many talents. His career included roles at General Motors, Exxon Mobile, Bayside Academy, and Woerner Turf. However, it was his passion for music that truly defined him. From a young age, Malcolm enjoyed playing the guitar and writing songs and jingles. In his earlier years, he performed country music alongside Betty before dedicating much of his life to gospel music. His devotion to faith and music led him to serve for many years on praise and worship teams at New Life in Christ Church, Abiding Love Fellowship Church, and Magnolia Springs Wesleyan Church. At the time of his passing, he was a cherished member of The Well Church in Foley. A godly man with a kind heart and an infectious sense of humor, Malcolm brought joy to those around him with funny lines and silly rhymes. He loved watching old western movies and Alabama football. He instilled Christian values in his children and grandchildren while sharing his love for music with everyone he met. Malcolm was a gifted guitarist and could sing every word to hundreds of songs; singing and playing guitar were an integral part of his life from his teenage years through his final days. Malcolm is survived by his loving, devoted wife of 68 years, Betty Burgess Paul; sons Daniel "Danny" Paul; Darryl Paul (Lea); John "David" Paul; daughter Deborah "Debbie" Gray (Jerry); brother Jimmy Paul (Marsha); ten grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and a multitude of friends and extended family who will forever cherish their memories of him. He was preceded in death by his father Angus Mabin Paul; mother Alma Estelle Redmond Paul; brothers Angus "Sonny" Paul, Mac Paul, and Lowell Paul; sisters Lucille Ware, Winnie Manley, and Bonnie Wallace; and daughter-in-law Virginia Paul. Malcolm’s legacy is one of faithfulness—to God, to family, and to the music that brought so much light into the world. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched with his kindness and humor. May those who knew him find comfort in remembering the joy he brought into their lives through laughter and song. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 02:00 PM to 04:00 PM at Summit Church located at 21431 County Road 12 S., Foley, Alabama 36535.