Obituary of Beverly Diane Paul

Bev Paul passed away Friday April 19, 2024 in Durham, North Carolina. Born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to George W. and Clara H. Bretz, Bev attended college at East Carolina University. Bev had a distinguished career in music and entertainment which included recognition by The Country Music Hall of Fame in 2020 for her contributions to the business of the music industry. Bev was a true advocate for the artist and held leadership positions that ranged from venue/club management to becoming the General Manager of Sugar Hill Records of Durham NC. Under her leadership Sugar Hill Records established itself as one of the premier independent American Roots and Bluegrass music labels. Bev was a member of the International Bluegrass Music Association and served on the Board of Directors for multiple terms. One accomplishment, of which she is the most proud, is to have joined a small group of music professionals who came together to establish what has now become the Americana Music Association. Following retirement, Bev continued to support several artists and music business leaders as a consultant and mentor. Bev lived on a beautiful property in Efland, North Carolina with her husband Bobby Paul and their dog Brindle. The family invites you to learn more about Bev’s life and career by viewing the video from the Louise Scruggs Memorial Forum Award presentation. https://watch.countrymusichalloffame.org/videos/bev-paul-louise-scruggs-memorial-forum-2020 Bev is survived by her husband Bobby Paul. Sister Joan Duvall of Annapolis, MD. Nieces Alyssa Krisko (Rob) of Davidsonville, MD and Kristen Pratt (Aaron) of Smyrna GA. Stepson Tres Ellis (Laurie) of Austin, TX. Brother In-law Byron Paul (Barbara) of Raleigh, NC. And many friends and extended family members including grand nieces, nephews and step grandchildren. At this time there will be no service. Any future celebration of life will be communicated at a later time. In lieu of flowers, please support live, local musicians and artists or consider a donation to The V Foundation for Cancer Research at www.v.org.

Walker’s Funeral Home of Hillsborough is assisting the Paul family.