Paul Wayne Scarborough, 89, of Rison, Arkansas, passed away Friday, October 16, 2026, at his home.
He was the son of Paul Randall and Louise Scarborough.
As a young child, he moved with his family to Camden, Arkansas, where he attended Fairview schools and graduated in 1955. He then went to Arkansas A&M (now UAM) in Monticello and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in forestry in 1960. After graduation he began work for International Paper Company in Pine Bluff and joined the U.S. Army Reserves. After completion of his training in Fort Leonardwood, MO and San Antonio, TX, he returned to work as a forester for International Paper Company in Rison. With only a few months into his career, he was re-activated in the Army and served another eleven months in Fort Benning, GA.
Returning from serving his country, he continued his thirty-five-year career with International Paper Company in Rison, working in forest management in several capacities, including unit manager, in the Rison, Pine Bluff and Sheridan areas. He was also active in the community, where he was a faithful member of the Rison United Methodist Church, serving on various committees and singing in the church choir. He also served on the City Council for several years.
After his retirement he enjoyed traveling, completing projects around his home, and being with family and friends. With an avid interest in current events, he loved discussing politics, national affairs, and sports, but his main interest was the people he loved-his friends, his church family, and especially his family.
Mr. Scarborough was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Louise Scarborough, and his brother, Jerry Joe Scarborough. He is survived by his wife, Linda Dedman Scarborough, whom he married June 2, 1963; his son, Paul Dedman Scarborough (Jill) of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; and two grandchildren, Ty of Auburn, Alabama, and Katie of Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Memorial services will be 2 p.m. Monday, October 19, 2026, at Rison United Methodist Church with Rev. Ike Mohr and Rev. Spencer Branch officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.
Memorials may be made to Rison United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, P. O. Box 468, Rison, AR 71665.