The world lost a wonderful loving force on  March 5, 2026. An embodiment of joy and love, Paul lived his life making others laugh and always making their day brighter.

Paul is survived by his Fiancé Caron Holtzclaw, his mother Patricia Hettesheimer, his children Paul Hettesheimer IV and Vanessa Hettesheimer and her Fiancé Patrick Lazor, He also leaves his sister Brenda Gilfedder and her husband, Brian of Rockaway Township, NJ, brother James Hettesheimer and his wife, Erin of Chester, NJ, brother, Michael Hettesheimer and his wife, Fran of Montville, NJ and sister, Deborah Citarella and her husband, Joseph of Scotch Plains, NJ. He will be deeply missed by countless uncles, aunts, cousins, nephews, nieces, and lifelong friends. He shared moments of laughter, joy, and comfort with them, forming strong family bonds that will remain the mainstay of their lives forever. His roots are in New Jersey and he got his wings in Georgia. Paul moved to Georgia 11 years ago and absolutely loved it. He wanted to be southern so bad and referred to himself as a southern boy at heart, especially when he enjoyed biscuits from his favorite hole in the wall restaurant and ended up engaged to a Georgia native. 

Known for his magnetic personality and infectious smile, Paul loved to tell jokes, and his corny punch lines will be missed by all. His favorite pastimes included smoking cigars, cooking, and hiking with our dog, Beau. He had a special love/hate for Orange Theory Fitness and running. He had plans to run his first marathon this year. Paul was extremely proud of his accomplishments at Orange Theory and it spurred him to compete in all the challenges they offered.  Paul was very competitive with himself. His office is covered with metals from runs and his phone is full of personal bests in class for bragging rights!

His zest for life was manifested in his favorite foods and drinks. The cherry and lemon Italian Ice from Jeremiah's  almost everyday was his ultimate delight, and he would never turn down a Diet Coke, even in the middle of the night while  watching 'Gold Rush'. Paul loved watching them find all of the Gold and had dreams of gold panning himself.  We finally went on Valentine's Day this year. He found 3 pieces and lit up like a kid at Christmas. We immediately began planning our next gold panning adventure.

Paul was a pitmaster at heart and loved all things related to smoking meats. He shared memorable tailgating moments at Jets games with his son, brother, and friends. The father-son duo also spent countless hours cooking together for BBQ competitions. Their shared passion for cooking are some of Paul's greatest memories that he loved to talk about. With his daughter, he shared the love of sailing before she grew into a courageous lawyer and took up running. He was so proud of her accomplishments and loved seeing her live vibrantly with the love of her life. His last 10k run he was able to complete with her and Patrick by his side and he treasured that moment. 

Paul was always full of life and thrived on the tenet, "Go big or go home!" He believed in giving it all or not doing it at all, and his generosity knew no bounds. His legacy will be one of giving and loving life on a grand scale. He was also the best dog dad around. His love and patience with Beau were fun to watch. Not so much when he ate his sandwich, but Beau survived and Paul was able to laugh about it... much later. I think he told everyone that story.

Let us celebrate Paul's life with smiles and laughter, just as he would want us to. He has left an indelible mark on all our hearts, and his spirit will continue to live through his acts of service, his love for life, and his larger-than-life personality. Join us 4/11 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at The Painted Horse Winery and Vinyards in Milton, Ga. We will cheers to Paul!

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/paul-hettesheimer-iii/obituary/

Copy