Following the sad announcement of Paul’s death, dozens of tributes poured in to Southwest Community Development Corp. where he was Board President for close to a decade.
“I’m heartbroken! Paul came to our 5th grade at Catherine Elementary and spoke to us about drugs with #McGruffthedog,” reflected Lisa Tronco Pizzo. “No matter your color or if you were the worst junkie in the hood, he always had a smile and helping hand. He leaves a legacy of hope, faith, determination and love for his fellow man and God.”
“I had conversations with him while he was waiting for his (cancer) treatments at Pearlman Center,” noted Sheena Saunders, a block captain in Kingsessing. “He’ll never be forgotten!”
“A true activist! We need more Brothers like him,” added Steve Milbourne “God bless him and his family.”
Roslyn concluded, “I met Earthquake 18yrs ago in Paschall helping to stomp violence and feed the hungry. Every Christmas Earthquake and his wife made sure everyone ate. Love and Peace!
Community leader Doreen Waller: “I asked him to join a back-to-school prayer vigil on the 1800 block of South Cecil Street a few years ago. He readily agreed and led the group in song and prayer.”
“A true champion – in the boxing ring and in the community!. He will be missed, but his legacy will last!” Alvin Smith
“He really was a legend in Southwest. I had many conversations with him as a child and was honored to call him my friend as an adult. I’m going to miss him. Thoughts and prayers go out to his family,” added Emmett Harrity.
Henry Cook: “Rest in peace ‘Unc!’ Your devotion to Philadelphia inspired many to go forward and give back to our great city of brotherly love. Rest in peace forever!
(Comments taken from emailed responses to the article Globe Times dated January 15, 2021)
