Paul Welby, 43, of West Scranton, passed away on Friday, August 21, 2026, surrounded by his family and loved ones at Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Dunmore. He is survived by his wife, Amy Proctor Welby.

Born in Scranton, Paul was the son of Gerard Welby (Bev Smith) and Nancy Brown Welby (Joe Zarick). He was a 2001 graduate of Lackawanna Trail High School and continued his education, earning an associate degree in Specialized Technology with a major in Information Technology.

Paul proudly served his country for 19 years as a member of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, attaining the rank of Sergeant First Class. During his military career, he served as both a Signal Support Systems Specialist, providing vital communications and technical support to his unit, and as a Horizontal Construction Engineer, operating heavy equipment in support of military construction and engineering missions.

His military service took him to numerous duty stations and on multiple deployments. Paul deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from 2012 to 2013 and later served overseas from 2021 to 2022 in support of Operation Spartan Shield. He also participated in additional non-combat theater deployments and assignments throughout his career.

Among the many military honors Paul received were the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Pennsylvania Major Octavius V. Catto Medal, along with numerous other awards, citations, and ribbons recognizing his military service, leadership, and dedication to others.

Paul’s commitment to his fellow veterans extended far beyond his service in uniform. He served as President of Fight4Vets Inc., a local nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting veterans and their families in times of need. He was also an at-large member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, a member of American Legion Post 328, and a board member of the NEPA Armed Forces Day Parade Committee. Paul was also actively involved with NEPA Street Scene and the SGT Jan Argonish Ride, further reflecting his dedication to veterans, his community, and the causes that meant so much to him.

Helping veterans was not simply something Paul did; it was an important part of who he was. He cared deeply about veterans and their families and was always looking for ways to do more for those in need. Even while facing his own illness, Paul remained committed to the mission of Fight4Vets and continued putting the needs of fellow veterans before his own. His leadership, generosity, and selflessness made a lasting difference in the lives of countless people throughout the community.

Above all else, Paul loved his family. His children were his world, and he loved them with his whole heart. He also shared a special bond with Amy and her two children, who were an important part of his life. Throughout Paul’s illness, the outpouring of love and support from his family, friends, fellow veterans, and the community was a testament to the many lives he touched and the friendships he formed throughout his life.

In addition to his wife, Amy, and his parents, Gerard and Nancy Brown Welby, Paul is survived by his son, Jaxon Welby; his daughter, Elaina Welby; Amy’s two children, Autumn and Anastasia Proctor; his sister, Casey O’Day and her husband, Ryan; Linsay Zarick, who he loved like a sister, his niece Alora and nephew Kellen; and his many cousins, extended family members, fellow veterans, and dear friends.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Thursday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Edward J. Chomko Funeral Home & Cremation Services LLC, 262 Railroad Avenue, West Scranton.

A committal service will be held on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. in the chapel at Cathedral Cemetery, Oram Street, West Scranton, where full military honors will be accorded in recognition of Paul’s dedicated service to his country.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Paul’s honor to Fight4Vets Inc., 711 Davis Street, Scranton, PA 18505.

Paul will be remembered not only for the titles he held, the medals he earned, or the uniform he proudly wore, but for the father, partner, son, brother, friend, soldier, leader, and advocate he was. His devotion to his family, his fellow veterans, and his community leaves a legacy of service and selflessness that will continue through the many lives he touched.