Paul Joseph Principe

Paul Joseph Principe passed away peacefully, in his sleep, on September 5th , 2026 after a long & courageous battle with MS.

Paul was born to William & Elaine Principe on February 6, 1964, in Brooklyn, New York. Paul was raised Catholic and was devout during his childhood. He spent years growing up attending OLPH Catholic school and serving as an alter boy. He spent time working in finance on Wallstreet and many years in retail, most of those years as a Walmart Manager.

Paul was a loving husband, father, poppy, son, brother, uncle and friend. On May 22, 2008, he married the love of his life, Jessica Noel Fox. Later being sealed in the Logan, Utah Temple. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Paul returned to Catholicism six years ago, feeling good about returning to his roots. His wife always supported his faith and belief in God.

Paul loved the outdoors. He especially loved the mountains. Whether it was hiking, riding, playing in the river, or just enjoying a picnic (with Tyler, CJ, Treyson & Jordyn and of course Hostess Dingdongs) he was so happy to be surrounded by the mountain's beauty. When Paul moved to Utah from New York, he always loved to mention that he moved here for the nightlife. We all know it was for the mountains.

Paul loved listening to music. Especially the Beatles and The Grateful Dead. Paul also loved to play his guitar, and he was always working on a new song. As his disease progressed, his music brought him so much joy and happiness. Anytime we were with his family, on a Saturday night, there was music. We would all be singing and doing music trivia. Thank goodness for Alexa, she was able to settle the fun and spirited debates!

Paul was a lover of books and knowledge. He could always be seen reading a book, in his library of first editions. After he lost the ability to follow a story, he still always had a book in his hands. Paul was an avid sports fan. He loved his Mets, Jets, & Rangers. He enjoyed talking sports with anyone who would listen. Sundays were not complete without the family and friends' sports banter.

One of the interictal parts of Paul's happiness was being of service. His voicemail message said, "I'm out doing something wonderful for the world... , It was always true. He served his family, friends and neighbors whenever he was able. In most recent years he enjoyed donating his time to Our House Assisted Living. He became a fast part of their family. Paul enjoyed being a prankster. He never missed the opportunity to pick up someone's birthday money or gifts, waiting for them to catch him or being able to call them later and say, "Are you missing something?" His mischievous ways always brought laughter and fun to those around him.

Above all, Paul treasured his wife, children, grandchildren, all family, and his relationship with God. He cherished family. Becoming a Poppy was one of his most fulfilling callings. Paul was an incredible partner for Jess. Although their journey was shorter and harder than expected, he never hesitated to do everything within his power to make her laugh and smile. He always had her best interest at heart, even if it wasn't the most popular decision.

Paul was blessed to be loved by so many. Whether people met him through work, family, friends, or just on the street, he always had time for them. He still maintains many friendships from his days in retail and still misses those friends and the joy they brought to our lives.

Paul never met a stranger. He could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere. He learned this wonderful trait from his dad! He became more like Willie everyday, and he was very proud of that. Paul will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Paul's laughter, mischievous spirit, giving nature, and love for his family will remain in our hearts forever. And by the way, "YS.O.M.C. "!

"I love you, my handsome. You have said since your diagnosis that you had to continue fighting your disease until your mom and dad joined Karen. As your mom said at the end of her journey, you did good babe! She was so proud of those months and you should be as well. I will never forget our mantra, "Where there is no struggle, there is no strength". You have always been and will always be my biggest strength. So thus, this will be my biggest struggle. Thank you for always loving me, even when I couldn't love myself You love with a fierceness that cannot be matched. I will try to continue your legacy and make you proud to be my husband. My heart will always remember to never say goodbye, only I'll see you later! I'll love you always ... Love, your Phoenix."

Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Jess, his children, Candice (Travis) Wright, and Kyle Principe, our grandchildren (Brooklyn, Derek & Haiden), his sister Christine (David) Glennon, his In-Laws David & Loreen Fox, Michael (Barbara) Fox, Stephanie (Chad) Kearl and his nieces and nephews (Justine (Joseph), Jenn ( Frank), Melissa (Joseph), Sean (Kaci), Tyler, CJ, Treyson, Jordyn) and their children.

Paul was preceded in death by his father and mother & his sister Karen (Craig) Johnson.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Miller & his staff for their love and concern during this difficult time. His team of Doctors have always gone above and beyond the call of duty when it came to his health. We have been truly blessed.

Paul's service will be on Thursday, September 10, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. Viewings will be held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, from 6-8 P.M. and prior to the service from 9:30-10:30 A.M. All services will be held at the Rudd Funeral home.

He will be interred at the Garland, Utah Cemetery.