Paul William Broadbent of Arlington, VA passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 7, 2023, at the age of 81 of congestive heart failure. He was born February 13, 1941, in Cleveland, Ohio and attended St. Joseph’s High School. Upon completing his enlistment in the U.S. Marine Corps (59-63), he enrolled and graduated from John Carroll University with a BA degree in history/philosophy (67). During his 35+ years as an operations officer in the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), he took his family on wonderful adventures around the world. Through these experiences he instilled in his children an appreciation of different cultures; the value of life-long learning; and the importance of making the most of life and creating everlasting memories. Upon retirement what was most important to Paul was spending time with his family; spoiling his grandchildren; traveling the globe; and remaining in regular contact with his high school classmates. He showed love and care for his family and friends not only with words but through his deeds and generosity. We will always remember his intellect, integrity, humor, charm, and love of God and country.
Paul is survived by his wife of 31 years, Norah; his daughter Suzanne (Stan) Ledford of Peach Tree City, Georgia; his son Jason (Chelsa) of Newnan, Georgia; his grandchildren Ashley, Bella, Julianna, William Paul, Alexandria; his nephews and niece Tom, Mary Jane, Jon; and his former wife Carole. He is preceded in death by his parents Florence (Hawk) and Joseph; his brothers Richard and Donald; and granddaughter Ella Broadbent. Relatives and friends may call at DeJohn Funeral Home, 4600 Mayfield Rd, South Euclid, Ohio on Friday, February 24 between 4-8 pm. The funeral Mass will be held at 11 am on Saturday, February 25 at Holy Rosary Church, 12021 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, Ohio. Internment services immediately follow at Lake View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School, 18491 Lakeshore Boulevard, Cleveland, Ohio 44119.
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Charles Sloan
My dear friend you will be missed so much. I will miss the days of sitting on the front porch with you, learning about you and your world as well as teaching you about me and my world. I will miss the days of going with you and buying the flowers for the front porch flower boxes. Decorating your fireplace for you at Christmas. All the dinners and card games!! You will be missed so much. You were loved by so many people. I promise to you I will look after Norah and see that she is never lonely. I am so blessed that the two of you had come into my life, it will be hard go on without you, but I promise we will. I love you so much and rest in peace my dear friend.
Charles
Sherry Mauck
I admired Paul for attending university history classes — he chose subjects that the ordinary student would find too rigorous. When I visited, Paul often had his nose in a serious book, but was always ready for a friendly chat; I’ll miss seeing him sitting on the front porch. Sherry
Michael Wizniak
I’m sorry to hear the news. My condolences to the family and the many people whom Paul influenced through his tremendous intelligence and wisdom. He lived one of the most fascinating lives I’ve known and I would love to read his memoirs someday. I often reflect on some of his experiences overseas and his unique impact on the world. He mentored me through different stages of my career/life and I am forever grateful for it.
Marcia
My deepest condolences to Norah and Paul’s family. Paul was a light to all who met him with a heart and smile larger than life. He lived well, shared much, gave unselfishly, and loved all. RIP dear Paul! You are missed!
David Thurman
Paul was a dear friend and we shared many fascinating experiences over the years. I will miss sitting with him on the porch solving the problems of the world. Marcy and I send our sincere condolences. Rest in peace Paul.
Tex Lierly
We lived in the same apartment compound in Bangkok from 1991 till 1995. As such, we shared many meals, excursions and stories. Paul was always ready for a story and discussion for all. We will miss him and send Norah our sincere condolences. RIP Paul