Paul McElrath

Mr. Paul McElrath, 61, of Union City died Sunday, February 1, 2026, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Union City.

Services will be held on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. McPhearson-Rawls Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow in Eastview Cemetery.

Visitation will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home.

Paul Edward McElrath was born on September 15, 1964, in Phillippy, Tennessee, to the late Charlie and Effie McElrath.

Paul was a proud graduate of Union City High School. Following graduation, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the Kentucky National Guard in 1984. He served faithfully and was honorably discharged in 1991 as Specialist, Detachment 1, HHC, 1/123d AR. Upon returning home, Paul worked in landscaping before finding his long-term professional home with Tyson Foods, where he dedicated 21 years of service.

Paul was a loving father, brother, uncle, and friend. Known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and sense of humor, Paul brought laughter and joy wherever he went. To know him was truly to love him, and anyone who spent time in his presence knew they were sure to have a good time.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory his two daughters, Nakia McElrath and Na’Riya McElrath of Martin, TN; two sons, Bobby Gordon of Union City, Tennessee, and Kary Johnson of Mansfield, OH. He is also survived by his brothers, Michael (Renee) Anderson of Union City, TN; Charlie (Valerie) McElrath of Flint, MI; Jerome (Mary Jane) McElrath of Clarksville, TN; and Danny McElrath of Union City, TN.

He also leaves his sisters, Evelyn Bass, Sharon McElrath, and Kawana McElrath, all of Union City, TN; along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Paul’s legacy continues through his four grandsons and three granddaughters, whom he loved dearly.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; his three brothers, Marcel Anderson, Frank McElrath, and Dwayne McElrath; and his son, Roderick Johnson.

He leaves behind a lasting legacy through his children and grandchildren

McPhearson-Rawls Funeral Home - Union City 731-885-8110