Brevard - John Paul McCrary, 86,  went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, August 30, 2025. He passed away at home, doing what he loved, working outside on a sunny day, with a beautiful view of the mountains.

He was preceded in death by his dearly loved mother, Nola McCrary; his brothers, Willard McCrary and Bobby McCrary; and his sister, Ruth McCraw.

Paul worked for 40 years at Cranston Printworks and also worked for the North Carolina Department of Transportation. He loved to work and to encourage others to work as well. Even into his later years, he could outwork just about anyone. He was always busy with something, more often than not, it was helping someone else.

A Baptist by faith, Paul was an avid hunter and fisherman who had a deep love for animals and never met a stranger. He offered wise advice on what a person ought to do and grew a truly magnificent garden. He was a big man with a big personality.  Known for his unforgettable hugs and firm, memorable handshake.  Nothing brought him more joy than time spent with his grandchildren, whom he adored beyond words.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Debbie McCrary; his daughter and son-in-law, Miranda and Wes Pierson; his son and daughter-in-law, Trent and Kim McCraw; his grandchildren, Russell McCraw, Ethan Deal, and Imbri Pierson; and one great-grandchild, Hartley McCraw. He is also survived by his siblings, Joe McCrary, Wayne McCrary (Ruth), Lois Kelley, Linda Taylor (Rick), Ellen McManus, and Stella Jones (Stanley); several nieces and nephews; and his dear three-legged Chihuahua, Trooper.

A celebration of Paul's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at Moody-Connolly Funeral Home. The family will receive friends at home following the service.

Husband. Daddy. Papaw.

We will remember you every time we do some hard work, sit on the porch, or pet a dog.

Like you always said, "it's not goodbye, it's see you later."

Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com .

Moody Connolly Funeral Home is caring for the family.