October 5, 1947 – March 18, 2026
The peaceful death of Paul D. King, son of the late Walter P. King and Anne A. King (née Chapter) occurred on March 18, 2026. Born October 5, 1947, he spent his earliest years in the South End, a place he continued to claim as his home until his death. His life took him across the continent as he pursued a PhD, attending St. Thomas, UNB, University of California at Santa Barbara and the University of Alberta, eventually settling in Edmonton, Alberta for over a decade. He’d return to New Brunswick in the 1980s, where he settled to raise his family in St. Andrews. He then returned to Saint John, where he remained until his death following a short illness, which suited him, as he had no patience for being sick.
He is survived by his daughters, Vanessa King of Smithtown, NB and Sarah King of Edmonton, AB; his four grandchildren, Josie, Evelyn, Anakin, and Finnlay; his sister, Nancy King Schofield of Grand Barachois, NB and his brother, John King (Joan) of Nova Scotia, and several nieces and nephews.
Paul was a committed lifelong learner who earned many degrees and became a clinical psychologist. Although he never performed his work sentimentally, he approached every patient with empathy. He had an ability to understand people as they were. Retirement never appealed to him, and he continued to work and engage with colleagues until the end of his life.
He was chronically sarcastic and terrible at lying, which everyone who knew him, knew. Though he never would have described himself as a people person, he loved the human condition and always had a story to tell about someone he’d seen (whether true, or not).
An avid reader, Paul taught himself difficult languages for fun, played guitar, was a strong baseball player and loved golf. He quizzed anyone within reach on geography, he followed the Oilers faithfully, and he always looked forward visits with his friends.
During his illness, many of these long-time friends showed up with steady support, arriving with teas, coffees, and chocolate. Whether he told you or not, he appreciated all the contraband snacks.
Paul was a devoted father and caring friend. His life was shaped by curiosity, discipline, and a deep commitment to his work as well as the people in his life he cared about. He will be missed every day by those who loved him.
His family would like to thank the caring doctors, nurses and support staff of Acute Care, 3C North and the incredible Palliative Unit, with special thanks to Dr. Tewes, Dr. Gray, & Dr. Love.
Donations can be made to the Saint John Regional Hospital Foundation, earmarked for the Palliative Unit at 3B North. In lieu of flowers, please book a colorectal screening for yourself and encourage those you love to do the same.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, New Brunswick, (506 634-7424). A celebration of life, in memory of Paul will be announced at a later date.
