Paul Ray Camp was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on Saturday, May 6, 2023, after a life well-lived. He was born in Elk City, Oklahoma on September 8, 1944, to Curtis and Sylvia Camp.
Although a lifelong Oklahoma Sooners fan, Paul came to Texas “As soon as I was old enough to walk there.” His family moved to Amarillo when he was six months of age and he lived his youth throughout Texas in Amarillo, Tulia, Dallas, and Big Spring. He graduated from Big Spring High School in 1963 and continued his education at Abilene Christian College graduating in 1966 with a Bachelor’s degree in religious education. Later, he also received his Master’s degree in education from Abilene Christian University.
He was united in marriage to Donna Lee Bassham on August 28, 1964, and they enjoyed fifty-eight years of marriage. To this union, two sons were born- Curt and Russell. Paul had the pleasure of coaching both of his sons at Amarillo Christian High School, which was a joy and …sometimes discomfort to all involved. While coaching at Amarillo Christian High School, his basketball team won the State title in 1989 and he was named Texas High School Boys Coach of the Year for TAPPS-Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools.
Paul had a true servant’s heart and spent his life increasing the table fellowship of the Kingdom of God. He led the song worship at church starting at the age of fourteen. He preached at Golden Plains Church of Christ for the most part of the last thirty years of his life. He also served as an Elder at Golden Plains. He worked at High Plains Children’s Home where he was recognized for having “A Career of Services to Children in Need.” For twenty-six years he served at HPCH in several capacities including: Public Relations, Counselor, Executive Director, Director of Special Projects, Management Information Systems, and Publications. Throughout all of his careers and callings, coaching remained his heart’s passion. Paul was a highly successful basketball coach at both Amarillo Christian High School and Alamo Catholic High School. He loved every athlete that played for him and taught invaluable life lessons both on and off the court. Above all, he taught his players to compete hard until the final buzzer. A lesson he modeled until his last breath.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis and Sylvia Camp.
He loved and was loved by his survivor’s; wife, Donna of the home, sons Curt and wife Wendy, and Russell and wife Jessica; six grandchildren, Elizabeth, Emily, Ethan, Greyson, Matson, and Cutter; brother Lynn and wife Barbara, and sister Gail and husband Ron Stubbs- all of Amarillo; and ten nieces and nephews.
Paul’s celebration of life will be held at 11:00 AM, May 20, at Comanche Trails Church of Christ. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorials be made to either Golden Plains Church of Christ; or EEM- Eastern European Missions.
I am honored to say that the Camp family and the Caple family have been friends for almost 65 years. They continue to be the very best examples of family and friends that any person could ever ask for. Our association and support for High Plains Children’s Home started over 50 years ago as a result of that friendship. Paul has been associated with Godly people, places and things for as long as I have known him. In life, some losses are more profound than others. The loss of Paul Camp, like the loss of my parents and Paul’s parents, is one of those moments. I am deeply saddened by Paul’s passing, but happy and blessed to know him as my friend. Jay Caple, Arlington, Texas
Mr. Camp had the sweetest spirit and the kindest heart. I loved seeing him every day! He had the biggest smile. Donna, I know you have such wonderful memories!! I’m sorry for your loss, but know that he’s rejoicing!!
I worked with Paul, providing Marketing Consultation, for HPCH and Golden Plains Church. I was impressed with his passion, creativity and authenticity. What a beautiful soul. Prayers for the entire Camp family.
Donna, Leon Wood just shared the news of Paul’s death. He and Marilyn recalled getting to know you and Paul at Bell Avenue. Linda and I enjoyed you and Paul during our time at HPCH. Thinking of you and Gail makes us smile out loud. We love you and your beautiful family. You have our love and condolences. I ra and Linda Purdy
Gail and Ron, John and I are keeping you in our hearts and prayers. We love you all . John and Beverly Stinson
Have known him since 1966. A more loyal friend could not be found. He performed our wedding ceremony in 1978. Rest well my dear friend.
Our loss is heaven’s gain. Paul will be sorely missed, but our comfort is found in the assurance of a future reunion.
Our love to the family!