Mr. Paul Irving Bigelow

Paul Irving Bigelow, Jr. passed away in a car accident on January 21, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, loyalty and laughter.  A Celebration of his Life will be held Thursday January 29, 2026, at Southside Baptist Church 1001 Greenhaven Drive Greensboro NC 27406. The family will receive visitors from 11:30- 12:00 PM. The service will begin promptly at 12:00 Noon. Interment will immediately follow at Lakeview Memorial Park 3600 N O' Henry Blvd Greensboro NC 27405.

Paul was born on December 18, 1970, in Greensboro, NC to Sarah B. Cottrell and the late Paul Irving Bigelow, Sr. He was educated in Guilford County Schools and was a proud graduate of James B. Dudley High School, Class of ‘89.

In 1991, Paul became a father to his only child, Iesha Louise Bigelow, aka “Dooty.” He was always a loving and supportive father. As a lifelong sports fan, he was particularly proud when she was a member of the Dudley High School Basketball Team which won the NC State Championship in 2009.

Paul was employed at Boren Brick for several years, before heading to UNCG, where he would work for 23 years. He was a beloved co-worker and well known across the campus.  Paul held several positions and received many accolades over the years. He was most proud to have been named Housekeeper of the Year in 2014. He wore the Blue and Gold on and off campus and proudly represented UNCG throughout the community.

It was at UNCG that Paul met the love of his life, Serena Raleigh, with whom he shared 18 years together. They were a special couple who had a deep devotion to each other. Paul adored Serena’s two children and was “Paw-Paw” to her three grandsons.

Paul drew his strength from his relationship with God. He would sometimes seem to be talking to himself, but if you were to listen closely, you would hear that he was praying. He had a personal relationship with his Savior and would proudly let you know of his love for God.

Paul was also the epitome of a “Mama’s Boy.” If nobody ever loved their mama, Paul loved his. Their special relationship built the foundation for the man he became. His love extended to his family and friends. He had an easy smile, a warm heart and a gift for making people feel loved. His laughter would fill the room, and his kindness left everlasting impressions. His greatest joys came from spending time with family and friends, sharing meals and of course, watching sports.

Paul was a lifelong Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls and New York Yankees fan. He also cheered for the Carolina Hurricanes and the UNC Tarheels.  And for many years he was a NASCAR fan, with Jeff Gordon as his favorite driver. But his beloved Bears held the highest place in his heart. He gained thousands of followers on Twitter due to his love for the Bears, almost always signing off with "Bear Down." Paul was preceded in death by his sister, Sarah “Ann” Bigelow and a special niece, Denise Bigelow.

Left to cherish his many memories are his mother, Sarah Cottrell (Bill); daughter, Iesha Bigelow; brother, Tyrone Bigelow (Karen); his beloved, Serena Raleigh and her children, Audrey and Jahson, and grandchildren, Dylan, Rylan and Landon; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

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