After 86 years of life, Paul Ray McFerron passed away at home in Fredericktown, Missouri on February 29, 2024. Paul was born on January 6, 1938 in Stoddard County, Missouri. Paul is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Bess McFerron, his sister Karen Kay Carruthers, his brother Harvey F. McFerron, and his father-in-law Lester and mother-in-law Lena Smallen.

Paul is survived by his wife Janet Fay (Smallen) McFerron, his daughter-Nancy L. (Cynthia Cavazos) McFerron. He is also survived by his brother Tom K. McFerron and sister-in-law Sharon (Harvey) McFerron, Wanda Smallen Savage, Marian Wirtz. He also has nieces and nephews – Julie Kay (David) Sandweg, Sam (Melanie) McFerron, Danny (Christine) McFerron, Michael (Abbie) McFerron, Paul T. (Lexi) McFerron, Joe (Missy) McFerron, Keith Wirtz, Bryan (Martha) Wirtz, Steve (Kristi) Wirtz and Todd (Mell) Smallen.

Paul, during his youth, was baptized as a member of the Second Baptist Church in Fredericktown. He attended Fredericktown schools and after graduating in 1956, Paul and his best friend Bill (Miriam) Tesreau joined the United States Marine Corp. After returning from the service, Paul and Janet married in 1960 and moved to California where he worked and lived in the Bay Area from 1960 to 1969. Returning to Missouri in 1969, he became co-owner of Mineral Area Office Supply in Park Hills until his retirement in 1989.

While residing in the Mineral Area, Paul was an avid fan and supporter of Mineral Area College men's basketball program. Attending their games home and away. When not keeping up with MAC basketball, Paul enjoyed crappie fishing and jogging with his dog Ralphie.

After moving back to Fredericktown, he volunteered with the Fredericktown High School Army JROTC Program from 2009 to 2020.

Memorials can be made to the Fredericktown High School Army JROTC, 805 MO. – 72, Fredericktown, MO. 63645