Scranton Community Mourns the Loss of SFC Paul Welby, Dedicated Army Veteran, at 43

The Scranton, Pennsylvania, community is mourning the death of Sergeant First Class Paul Welby, a respected Army veteran who passed away at 43 following a courageous battle with esophageal cancer. His death has left family, friends, fellow veterans, and supporters grieving the loss of a man remembered for his resilience, military service, and determination.

Paul enlisted in the United States Army nearly 20 years ago and proudly served his country, including a deployment to Afghanistan. Following his cancer diagnosis, his health reportedly declined rapidly. His family noted that doctors believed his illness may have been connected to burn-pit exposure during his active military service—a critical health issue that has tragically affected many modern combat veterans.

Despite his challenging prognosis, Paul faced his illness with remarkable strength and spirit. While there was initial hope that medical treatments were helping, his condition later deteriorated, leading to hospice care. In one of his final and most meaningful life milestones, Paul married his loved one just three days before his death, surrounded by family and close friends.

His passing has prompted an overwhelming outpouring of support from the Scranton community, fellow service members, friends, and neighbors. Paul Welby will long be remembered for his steadfast dedication to his country, his fierce and courageous battle with cancer, and his enduring resilience. His family, friends, and fellow veterans will continue to honor the memory of a man whose service and personal strength touched countless lives.