Jonesboro- Paul Lynn Eldridge, 68, passed from this life, Monday, November 1, 2016, after a courageous and valiant battle with cancer.

Paul was diagnosed with cancer in 1967 at the age of 19. At that time, he was given three years to live. His response was, "I will live longer than that! As a matter of fact, I plan to outlive most of the people I know!" Throughout the next nineteen years, Paul battled various forms of cancer. Then, God granted him 22 years remission from his disease. His last battle began in 2007. Never was he alone in his fight to survive. Throughout all his illnesses, he had his beloved wife and companion, Glenda by his side; his battles were her battles. Her loving and devoted care have been a determining factor in not placing him in a nursing facility or hospice. Paul never complained of how he felt and Glenda never complained about the responsibilities of caring for him. Love and devotion was very evident in their relationship. God blessed them tremendously on August 11, 2016, by allowing them to celebrate 50 years of marriage. We are very grateful and thankful they reached this milestone in their union together.

Paul was born July 29, 1948 in Little Rock to the late Billy and Martha Leach Eldridge. He was known by many for his creative and meticulous artistic talents in many areas. His most notable talent was that of a potter. He received his Bachelor's degree in Art from Arkansas State University and had completed all but three hours of a Master's degree. When Arkansas State University celebrated their 50th anniversary, Paul was commissioned to create a 50th anniversary mug to be sold to ASU Alumnus as a souvenir of the occasion.

Paul also enjoyed the beauty of nature as an avid hunter and fisherman. Another favorite pastime was watching NASCAR racing. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy.

Paul was of the Baptist faith and had accepted Christ at a young age. He maintained his belief and faith in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

Paul is survived by his loving wife, Glenda of the home; his beloved son, Dr. Lyndon Drew Eldridge (Kara) of Edmond, Oklahoma; three grandsons he adored, Ethan, Cooper, and Miles Eldridge of Edmond; his siblings, Karen Routh (Randy) of Overcup, Gerald Eldridge (Myrna) of Springfield, David Eldridge (Debbie) of Hattiville and Bruce Jones (Sarah) of Oopello and his loving and protective furry friend, Claire.

Paul was preceded in death by a sister, Stacy Eldridge; his step-dad, Virgil Jones and his grandparents.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 pm Saturday, November 5, 2016 at Gregg- Langford Bookout Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Kenneth Winningham officiating. Interment will follow at Jonesboro Memorial Park Cemetery.

Visitation will be from noon until 2:00 pm Saturday at the Gregg- Langford Bookout Funeral Home at 300 W. Matthews Ave in Jonesboro.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Bruce Jones, Gerald Eldridge, Jim Stark, Ron Freeman, Dan Barber and Jack Harrison.