Brian Edward Pauley

Brian Edward Pauley, known affectionately to friends and family as Brian or Ranger, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2023, in Dothan, Alabama. Born in Charleston, West Virginia, Brian's journey through life was marked by courage, adventure, and an abundance of love.

Graduating from Hurricane High School, where he demonstrated his athletic spirit on the football field, Brian went on to further his education at West Virginia University. His sense of duty and patriotism led him to a distinguished career in the military, serving both in the US Marines and the US Army. Over a span of more than 20 years, Brian's service took him across the globe, embracing the adventures that each assignment brought their way. Upon retirement at Ft. Stewart, Georgia, he chose to settle in Dothan, where he continued to lead a life filled with purpose and community involvement.

Brian's life was not only defined by his military achievements but also by his personal life, filled with deep connections and unwavering commitment. He married the love of his life, Kelley Pauley, on December 3, 2010—a date chosen on his birthday to ensure it would never slip his mind. Together they shared a bond that was both tender and resilient.

A warrior at heart, Brian was U.S. Army Ranger who also played a pivotal role in developing the Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) Training at Ft. Novosel. His bravery was matched only by his kindness; he was the man who would offer you the shirt off his back without a second thought. Those who knew Brian experienced his heart of gold and witnessed the countless times he extended a helping hand to anyone in need. Brian recently recommitted his life to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He loved the Lord and was striving to live his life according to God's will. He was a faithful member of Harvest Church.

Brian's gentle nature made him a loving husband, father, and grandfather. His children, Brion (Karissa) Pauley and daughters Amber Croft and Ashton Stewart, cherished him deeply as well as his stepson, Aaron Cumbie. To his grandchildren—Jackson Stewart, Christian Croft, Rowan Stewart, and Kalani Pauley—Brian was affectionately known as "BB," a testament to the special place he held in their hearts.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and honor, remembered by his devoted wife, Kelley, his proud mother, Doris Pauley, his sister Charlene (Mike) Armstead, and his nephew Brandon Armstead. The family he nurtured and the lives he touched stand as a testament to the man he was.

Military honors will be held at Sunset Memorial Park Helicopter Pavilion following the service, where friends, family, and comrades will gather to honor a man who exemplified the words of Winston Churchill: "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts." Brian's life was a reflection of this sentiment, as he faced each day with the courage to continue, no matter the challenge.

Brian Edward Pauley's story is one of a life well-lived, characterized by an adventurous spirit, courageous heart, and loving nature. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a hero in both his public service and private life.

A celebration of Brian's life will be held at 2pm Sunday, December 17, 2023 in the Sunset Chapel. The family will be receiving friends an hour prior to the service.