Paul Edward Atherton was born August 26, 1920 in Oakland, CA to Harold Edward Atherton, Sr. and Mary Jane Turner Atherton. Paul spent his childhood in Alton, IL before moving with his family to Tulsa, OK. He graduated in 1939 from Tulsa Central High School. Paul joined the Army in 1942. He served through 1945 at Fort Knox, KY.

Paul met the love of his life, Syble Lee Bolinger on a blind date in 1953. They married on May 1, 1954. Paul and Syble were blessed with the birth of their son, Randy Lee Atherton, on July 16, 1969. They moved to Bradford, PA for three years immediately following Randy's birth. Then they returned to Tulsa for good.

Paul spent most of his career working as a machinist, first for Nielson Manufacturing for 29 years then for John Zink where he retired after 12 years. Paul was always happiest doing anything with his son, Randy, or his granddaughters, Rebecca and Rachel. He was a faithful spectator at countless sports games and dance performances.

Paul went to be with his Savior after a brief battle with cancer on Friday, December 04, 2015. He was preceded in death by his parents, his older brother Harold Jr. and infant brother William. Paul is survived by his wife Syble, of the home, as well as son, Randy, daughter-in-law Lara, granddaughters Rebecca and Rachel. His faithful dog, Leo, kept watch to the end. He is also survived by his sister Virginia Boyd of Fredericksberg, VA; 6 sisters-in-law and 3 brothers-in-law; and dozens of nieces and nephews. He was a member of Southwood Baptist Church in Tulsa.

Visitation is Sunday, December 6, 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Moore's Southlawn. Service is Monday, December 7, 10:00 a.m. at Moore's Southlawn Chapel. Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233 share memories at www.moorefuneral.com