Paul Allen Runyan

If you heard laughter coming from across the room, you didn’t have to wonder who was at the center of it – it was Paul Allen Runyan. Born on October 30, 1964, Paul lived a life full of humor, heart, and connection, and passed away on April 27, 2026, at the age of 61. He had a gift for making people laugh, the kind that didn’t need a stage or a spotlight. It just showed up naturally, right when you needed it most.

Paul was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Batesville, Arkansas. He is survived by his loving wife of 24 years, Lisa Runyan; his sons, Jeremy Runyan (fiancé Katie Deberry) and Terry Runyan; his granddaughter, Navy Runyan; his sibilings, William Runyan (Jodi), Karen Roberson (Danny), and Debra Hardin (late, Kevin Hardin); his niece, Tamera Shreve (Eric); his nephew, William Boles; and his special friends, Scott Perkey (Michelle), Beckie Burke (Buck), Kirsten McCracken (Jimmy) and Cheyan Moreno.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Genelda Tyler and his father, Billy Runyan.

As the youngest of four siblings, Paul grew up learning how to keep up – and more importantly, how to keep everyone smiling. Being the “baby” of the family didn’t make him quiet; it made him quick-witted, playful and full of personality. He carried that same spirit throughout his life, always ready with a joke, a story, or a perfectly timed one-liner.

Paul loved deeply and lived in a way that made people feel at ease just being around him. Whether he was with family or friends, he had a way of turning ordinary moments into something special. His humor wasn’t just about laughter-it was how he showed love, how he connected, and how he lifted others.

He also had a lifelong love for cars-not just driving them, but bringing them back to life. There was something he enjoyed about fixing them up, making them shine again, and then taking them out on the road. That passion became more than a hobby; it became part of who he was. Alongside his wife and partner, they ran Auto Adventures, where he became known as one of the most honest used car dealers around. For Paul, it was never just about selling a car-it was about treating people right, being fair, and building trust. That integrity left a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path.

He faced ALS with quiet strength and a resilience that never overshadowed who he truly was. Even through the hardest days, that familiar spark remained. The humor, the heart, and the love he gave so freely never left him.

Paul leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love and the reminder not to take life too seriously. As he would say, in true Three Stooges fashion, “Nyuk, nyuck, nyuck.” And somehow, that still feels just right.

If you knew Paul, he was a straight shooter. His go to line delivered with a grin, was always, “Just pay the man.” And one favorite saying his sister, Karen Roberson said, “It will be alright.”

He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always heard in the laughter he leaves behind.

Funeral services will be held Friday, May 1, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. at the Qualls Batesville Funeral Service Chapel with Bro. Randy Scott and Bro. Deshawn Pankey officiating and testimonies by Mitch Ward and Scott Perkey. Burial will follow in the Cave City Cemetery.

Visitation will be Friday, May 1, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. until service time at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be Jimmy McCracken, Buck Burke, Scott Perkey, David Poechhacker, Daniel McCord and Jeremy Runyan.

Honorary pallbearers will be Tony Herndon, Brent Herndon, Tim Hooker, Greg Penn, Danny Roberson, Denny Ward, Ricky Don Tate and William Boles.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Gentiva Hospice and Dr. Andryka.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the ALS Association at 1919 University Ave. W. Suite 175, St. Paul, Minnesota 55104.

Arrangements are by Qualls Funeral Homes.