Paul Leslie Abbott

The memorial service celebrating the life of Paul Leslie Abbott, 79, will be held at 11am Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Congaree Baptist Church of St Matthews. Visitation will immediately follow in the sanctuary.

Paul passed on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. Born August 13, 1946 in Columbia, SC, Paul quickly evolved from an energetic young man to the first Lower Richland High School graduate to letter in four sports. He was known as a curious and loquacious lad with a deep devotion to those he called ‘friend.’ Those qualities, and treasured friendships, remained with him throughout his lifetime, as anyone on the listening side of a winding story and a golf cart can attest.

Paul was an avid reader with an uncanny ability to retain information combined with an extraordinary attention to detail, serving him well as his career transitioned from painter to salesman to Vice President. In turn he served his family and his community as a deacon, youth basketball coach, church softball player, Sunday school teacher and choir member. Most recently he has been a faithful member of Congaree Baptist Church and a team member of the Calhoun County Council on Aging, delivering meals and transporting neighbors.

Paul was adored by his family, whom he led by example on how to love and talk to God, pray with intention, share faith, and forgive yourself and others as Jesus forgives you. He also taught us how to water ski, camp by a river, dance without caring who watches, support Carolina football, be present for anyone in need, write amazing birthday messages to keep forever, give and receive real hugs, and never be afraid to say “I love you” to your people.

Paul is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, JC Abbott, his daughters Deanna Marie Rudnick (Kelly), Karen Lesley Abbott, and Julie Abbott Hayne (Adams), his son Christopher Abbott, and children Vern Spires (Dusty) and Stacy Spires. He also leaves behind a beautiful legacy of 18 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren to carry forward his giving, kind and enthusiastic love of life.

Paul is predeceased by his adored mother Ida June Harling, his father James Rufus Abbott, his three sisters Rita Abbott Rye, Linda June Abbott and Susan Abbott Redfern, and his son Keith Paul Abbott.

Paul will be missed more than words can express while we rejoice in the heavenly homecoming he absolutely knew awaited him. And we know he’s finally enjoying another challenging round of 18, every hole below par.

The family would like to thank everyone for their loving support. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Congaree Baptist Church, 299 Old Belleville Road, St Matthews SC 29135.