Paul Greene

Paul (Hugh) Greene shed his earthly garment and entered his heavenly home on July 3, 2017. Born October 23, 1925, in Mecklenburg County to the late Maggie Drenan and John Norman Greene, he lived an exemplary life. After graduating from Clear Creek School in 1944, he enlisted in the US army and served for two years in France during World War II. Upon his release from service, Paul enrolled in and attended Morris Brown College, in Atlanta, Georgia, from 1946 to 1948 as a business major. He married Nellie Burris in 1949 and with her moved to Newark, New Jersey. There he worked at Raritin Arsenal, a firearm manufacturer for military personnel. In the mid 1950s he returned to Charlotte, North Carolina. Paul was a local legend who grew up in the Griertown community and learned much about civic involvement. As such he joined various organizations, among them the East Side Council. During a time of struggle for Negro civil rights, Paul became active in the movement. His reputation for service to worthy causes later led to his position as the first African American Deputy Sheriff in Mecklenburg County. He served in this position from 1964 to 1983, retiring as Captain. Growing up in Zion, Paul joined Weeping Willow AME Zion Church at an early age. During the 1960s he transferred his membership to Little Rock AME Zion Church where he faithfully served until his health failed. Paul loved his faith and held tight to the AME Zion doctrines. He served on several committees and boards at his beloved church. He was Preacher Steward on the Steward Board, an Associate Trustee, a member of Class No. 5 and he served as the church’s security officer. His favorite pastimes were reading, watching football games and gardening. He took special care and pride in his yard manicuring it to perfection. His skill and talent with landscaping earned him many accolades in his neighborhood. He maintained a community garden on his property where neighbors picked greens and other seasonal vegetables. He even planted seedlings he bought home from Europe; namely, a walnut that he cultivated and grew to maturity. The black walnut tree survives today. Paul was preceded in death by three sisters and three brothers. He is survived by one sister, Ollie Kay Greene and one brother, Charlie Greene (Helen); niece and caregiver, Jennifer Greene, and a host of other nieces, nephews and cousins.

Paul Greene

October 23, 1925 - July 3, 2017