Paul Melvin Honig

Paul Melvin Honig passed away on January 22, 2026, in Kingsport, Tennessee. He was born on September 18, 1940, in Brooklyn, New York, to Louis “Lou” and Molly Honig.

Paul was raised in Brooklyn, New York, and later served in the United States Army, working in the communications department and receiving a sharpshooter designation. He became a businessman, working alongside his father at Century Rubber Stamp Company. He later purchased his father’s partner’s share of the business and continued to own and operate the company. In 1972, Paul and his wife, Ethel, relocated to Sunrise, Florida, where he owned three hardware stores. He worked closely with his son-in-law, Chip Downs, whom he mentored in the business; Chip later assumed ownership. In later years, Paul and Ethel resided in Kingsport, Tennessee, with Cindy and Chip.

Paul met Ethel Honig at a mutual cousin’s wedding, and they were married on September 22, 1962. They shared 59 years of marriage. Together, they enjoyed traveling, cruising, rooting for the New York Mets, and collecting giraffes. They amassed a collection of more than 2,400 giraffe items.

Paul had a lifelong passion for cars and owned 71 vehicles over the years, including purchasing one directly off the top rack of a transport truck as it was being delivered to a dealership. He especially enjoyed sharing this interest with family. He will be remembered for his intelligence, practical skills, direct manner, mentorship, and the fun banter he shared with his family, friends, and customers. In recent months, Paul fully accepted Jesus Christ as the Messiah.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Molly Honig; his sister, Arlene Freundlich; and his wife, Ethel Honig.

He is survived by his daughters, Cindy Downs (Chip) of Kingsport, Tennessee, and Beth Chin (Chris) of Sunrise, Florida; his grandchildren, Jacob Lyn Downs, Melissa Sue Dean (Michael), and Alexis Chin; his great-grandson, Ausbie Ryan Dean; his cousin, Beverly Schnure; and his beloved grand-dog, Kitty.

A celebration of Paul’s life will be held at Mountain Home National Cemetery at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 29, where he will be laid to rest beside his wife, Ethel. A crocheted giraffe will be placed with him in tribute to their shared affection.

In lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions in Paul’s name to James H. Quillen VA Medical Center or Amedisys Hospice Care.