Paul Leroy Chumley

Paul Chumley, a reliable anchor of his chosen community and a beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on July 11, 2026, at the age of 82. Paul lived a life defined by passion, dedication, and an unyielding love for his family, friends, and home.

Born in Denver on September 15, 1943, to Ralph and Lucille Chumley of old Englewood, Paul was raised with the perfect balance of values—his father instilling a strong work ethic, and his mother nurturing growth while teaching the importance of respecting boundaries. 

Paul proudly served in the U.S. Army at Fort Hood, Texas, as a sergeant and communications specialist, earning expert marksman awards for both the rifle and M-14. His professional life was as varied as his interests—beginning at Western Electric, continuing through Mountain Bell and Sturgeon Electric, and ultimately leading him to entrepreneurship. He founded Another Telephone Company and later Tiffany Travel, bringing his legendary work ethic and determination to every endeavor. His persistence inspired all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

After completing his military service in 1964, Paul and his wife, Carol, returned to Colorado, where he embraced a wide range of hobbies. He bowled in local leagues, raced modifieds at Englewood Speedway until a crash during a test run (without his gear) prompted Carol to lovingly retire him from that pastime, and eventually discovered his greatest passion—golf. Whether on a course or in the weeds behind their home, golf was Paul’s happy place. It was where he connected with friends, shared laughter, and found joy—just not during anyone’s backswing.

Paul’s love for sports was unwavering and contagious. A lifelong supporter of the Denver Broncos and Colorado Avalanche, he fostered a deep appreciation for sports in everyone around him. When not at work or cheering on his teams, he could be found on the golf green or watching NASCAR, his knowledge and enthusiasm captivating anyone within earshot.

Beyond sports, Paul was known for his unforgettable sense of humor. He was the original prankster—sending live singing telegrams at 5 a.m., tossing M-80s where they decidedly did not belong, and perfecting jump scares that often prompted Carol’s startled “expletive Chumley!” His love of laughter was infectious, and he brought joy wherever he went.

Paul’s life was rich with love and connection, but he also knew the pain of loss. He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Chumley Sr.; his mother, Ione Lucille Chumley; his daughter, Sheila Chumley-Graham; his brothers Bruce and Ralph Chumley Jr.; and his sister, Pat Baird. Their memories lived on through Paul’s stories and will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved them.

He is survived by his loving wife, Carol; daughter Julie Fisher (Chris); brother David Chumley (Linda) and nearly brother Gary Hemphill (Gary); and his cherished grandchildren Caleb Fisher, Chloe Graham, Decker Graham, Victoria Fisher, and Broderick Fisher. Paul was a wellspring of strength, wisdom, humor, and emotional support—always ready with a joke, a helping hand, or a steady presence.

A celebration of Paul’s life will be held at Drinkwine Family Mortuary. In honor of his casual style and love for golf, attendees are encouraged to wear their favorite Broncos gear, NASCAR shirt, or bright golf attire.

Legacy is not only what we leave behind, but how we are remembered. Paul will be remembered for his unwavering loyalty, his passion for sports, his entrepreneurial spirit, his devotion to family, and his remarkable ability to make others laugh. His life was a testament to resilience, hard work, and the power of love. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit lives on in the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

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