Paul David Scranton

Paul David Scranton, 91, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2026, following an eleven-year journey with dementia.

Born on December 12, 1934, in Dubuque, Iowa, Paul was the son of Paul William Scranton and Clarissa (Patterson) Scranton. He developed a lifelong appreciation for agriculture, learning, and hard work, which led him to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture from Cornell University.

Paul proudly served his country in the United States Navy before returning to his agricultural roots. He began farming on his parents' farm and later owned and operated a 50-acre farm with his family. Gardening and harvesting berries from a variety of berry bushes were among his greatest pleasures, providing fresh food not only for his own family but generously sharing the harvest with many others. Some of those berry bushes still remain on the property today, serving as a lasting reminder of the life he cultivated. His passion for agriculture eventually led him to found Scranton Beekeepers.

Paul began his professional career as a County Agricultural Agent, a role that laid the foundation for his later work with institutions of higher education, where he shared his knowledge and passion for agriculture with others. He was respected for his dedication to his profession and the relationships he built along the way.

Outside of his professional life, Paul found his greatest enjoyment in the outdoors. He loved fishing and hunting, especially when shared with his good friend, Pat Russell.

Paul was formerly married to Barbara (Gil) Scranton, with whom he shared four children. They remained in touch through the years and shared in the lives of their growing family.

During the last eleven years of his life, Paul lived with dementia, facing the disease with quiet strength. His legacy lives on through the family he loved and the many lives he touched.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Dr. Richard Scranton; his brother, William Scranton, and sister-in-law, Margaret Scranton; his son, David Scranton; his daughter-in-law, Christine Scranton; and his son-in-law, Rodney Cook.

He is survived by his brother, Jack (Barb) Scranton; his sister-in-law, Laura Scranton; his daughters, Debra Godwin and Deidra Cook; his son, Dan (Rachel) Scranton; and multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The family is especially grateful to the caregivers, family members, and friends who walked alongside Paul throughout his journey with dementia. Their kindness, compassion, and unwavering support brought comfort not only to Paul, but to all who loved him.

In accordance with Paul's wishes, no funeral or memorial service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Paul's memory to an organization dedicated to dementia research, caregiver support, or improving the lives of those living with dementia.

Paul will be remembered with love, gratitude, and respect. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.