Paul J. Precourt

Paul James Precourt died on April 5, 2024, in Hamilton, NY, at the age of 83.

The son of Naomi and William J. Precourt Sr., he grew up in Oneida, NY. A resilient, generous, observant and thoughtful man with an incredible memory, heart and sense of humor, he lived with Cerebral Palsy after a traumatic birth.

Time drastically affected Paul’s speech and mobility, but as a boy, he was an excellent swimmer and active, getting into trouble in all the usual ways, and some unusual ways, as well – his mother was less than delighted to learn that he, his brothers and friends had somehow gained access to a “lot car” that they drove with glee until discovery.

On weekends, the extended family would gather to sing and make music. Those early sessions introduced Paul to his lifelong love of music. He amassed a collection of classic country music, and no one could stump him when it came to country music trivia. He was able to visit Nashville and the Grand Ole Opry, and twice, he made a pilgrimage to Graceland in Memphis.

Paul attended public schools as a child, then schools for those with Cerebral Palsy in Virginia and in Syracuse. As an adult, he lived in a series of homes, most notably the Kemble Street Home, where he resided for 18 years under the extraordinary care of former head Lorri Lawlor. Throughout his life, as much as his body allowed, Paul loved to dance, dress up and go to parties – a highlight was the prom at Kemble, where he was crowned king.

An engaged uncle who knew when a youngster’s sly checkers move wasn’t above board, he always remembered and asked after his family and friends. He was dedicated to sending carefully signed cards on birthdays and holidays, as well as small gifts whenever something reminded him of a loved one.

Paul was predeceased by his parents and a brother, William J. Precourt Jr. He is survived by his sister Linda (Mike) Seamans of Canastota, NY; sister-in-law Marie Precourt of Oneida Castle, NY; and brother Kenneth (Brenda) Precourt of Edgewater, FL; several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews; and extended family members.

In addition to the staff at Kemble Street House, Paul’s family wishes to extend its gratitude to the staff at Paul’s most recent residence, Hamilton House, for their wonderful care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your favorite charity or the United Cerebral Palsy & Handicapped Children’s Association of Syracuse.

A graveside service will be held at Jacksonville Rural Cemetery at County Road 127, Lysander, NY, on Sunday, April 28, at 1 p.m. All are welcome.  Compassionate personal and professional care is being provided to Paul and his family by Jeffrey T. Paul. Director of the Coolican-McSweeney & Paul Funeral Home.  To offer a condloence, please visit: coolican-mcsweeney.com

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