Paul Willie Couch, a dedicated diesel mechanic whose expertise sustained the heavy equipment vital to the mining industry for half a century, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026, in Hazard, Kentucky. Born on July 1, 1948, in Hyden, Kentucky, Paul’s life was marked by a commitment to hard work, devotion to family, and a deep connection to his community.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Paul served his country with honor before establishing a distinguished career in the challenging and demanding field of diesel mechanics. For 50 years, he applied his skills and knowledge to support the mining sector, ensuring that the heavy machinery operated reliably and safely. His work was a testament to his perseverance, dedication, and the pride he took in his professional life.

Beyond his career, Paul found joy and relaxation in fishing, repairing small engines, and indulging his passion as a car enthusiast. These hobbies reflected his hands-on nature and his love of problem-solving, traits that defined much of his personal and professional identity.

Above all, Paul’s proudest accomplishment was the time he spent with his family. He is survived by his two devoted sons, Paul Couch & Tina of Richmond, Kentucky,  Ramon Couch and Angel of Baltimore, Maryland; his loving daughter, Ruby Bowling and Curtis Leon of Bear Branch, Kentucky; and his sister-in-law, Evaleen Couch. His legacy continues through his four cherished grandchildren—Sam, Paul, Chris, and Brantley—and eight great-grandchildren—Xavier, Deonna, Sylvia, Naomi, Karmyn, Rosemary, Ravyn, and Josie—each of whom brought immense joy to his life.

Paul was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Willie and Geneva Young Couch, his devoted wife of 40 years, Lucy, who was the mother of his children, and his brothers, Kenneth Couch, Jerry Couch and his second wife: Wilma Couch. The memories of his family’s love and support were central to his life, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Paul Willie Couch’s life was one of steadfast dedication—to his country, his work, and most significantly, to his family. His legacy endures in the many lives he touched, the machinery he kept running, and the love he shared so generously.

Funeral services for Mr. Paul Willie Couch will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. - Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at the Dwayne Walker Funeral Home with Rev. George Abner officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a,m,,Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at the funeral home chapel. Interment will be held at the KY Veterans Cemetery following the funeral services on Tuesday with Leslie County DAV# 133 observing Full Military Rites.

**IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, THE FAMILY REQUESTS DONATIONS BE MADE TO LESLIE COUNTY 911 DISPATCH OR LESLIE COUNTY DAV CHAPTER 133.

FUNERAL: TUESDAY, APRIL 21, 2026 AT 1PM AT THE DWAYNE WALKER FUNERAL HOME CHAPEL

VISITATION: TUESDAY, APRIL 21, 2026, 10 AM TO 1PM

INTERMENT: KENTUCKY VETERANS CEMETERY SOUTH EAST - HYDEN, KENTUCKY 

OFFICIATING CLERGY: REV. GEORGE ABNER

PALLBEARERS: RAMON COUCH, CURTIS BOWLING, PAUL MICHAEL COUCH, CHRIS COUCH, JERRY COUCH, AXELL COUCH, CAMERON WILCOXSON, XAVIER PHILPOT, AND JAMES SIZEMORE.