Paul de Serres

Paul de Serres passed away too soon on April 16th, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to those he loved and served.

Paul was born on June 4th, !957 in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. In 1972, he moved with his family to Chapel Hill, North Carolina. He graduated from Chapel Hill High School in 1975 and went on to study business administration at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, as well as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Paul built a varied and hardworking career over the years, including roles in automotive repair, sales and rentals, and as a home inspector. For the last 20 years, he operated his own contracting and home appliance repair business where he became known for his meticulous craftsmanship, strong work ethic, honesty, and unwavering reliability. Paul was the person you could call at any hour- day or night- and he would show up ready to help. He could fix just about anything and would do so with perfection.

Outside of his work, Paul found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life with friends and family. He took pride in working on his home and fixing his cars. He loved deep sea fishing along the North Carolina coast, especially off Harkers Island and the Outer Banks. He loved skiing in Vermont and West Virginia. A devoted Tar Heels fan, he rarely missed a UNC basketball or football game. He enjoyed cooking, eating, and sharing recipes and pictures of his creations on Facebook. The man could eat endlessly and never gain a pound. He loved trips to New York to visit his sister and family, often taking in a show and enjoying foods from around the world in between helping her and others with home repairs. Paul also had a deep love for animals and adored his rescue dogs Max and Reese, whom he spoiled thoroughly.

Paul had a wide circle of friends and to know him was to know someone who would always have your back. He was especially devoted to his sister, Lianne, and was always available to lend his knowledge and help with anything related to her home or beyond. He FaceTimed her through many a repair project. His desire to help and generous spirit touched countless lives. He wanted the world to be a fairer, kinder, and more just place for all people.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick Joseph de Serres and Christine Covone de Serres, and his youngest brother, Jonathan Frederick de Serres. He is survived by his siblings Dr. Lianne de Serres, Mark de Serres (Suzan) and David de Serres; his nieces and nephews, Guy McKhann III, Cameron McKhann, Casey McKhann, Amanda de Serres, Lauren de Serres (Walter DeHaven) Brandi Ricci, Bryan de Serres, Aaron de Serres (Erin), and several grand nieces and nephews. He leaves behind many dear friends, including his former partner, René Suitt.

Paul died following complications related to the ravages of long-term cigarette smoking which sapped his energy and ability to breathe.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his generous heart, steady presence, and the countless ways he showed up for others.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date, likely in September. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Animal Protection Society of Durham in honor of Paul de Serres.