Paul Ray Whitley, 59, of Redfield, SD, passed away on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories that will be cherished by all who knew and loved him. He was known as a giving person, and even in death, his giving continues, as his donation of tissues will touch the lives of as many as 50 people.

His services will be held on Saturday, August 8, at Hyke Funeral Home in Redfield. Visitation, with family present, will be from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. His funeral service will begin at 2:00 PM, with Reverend Keith C. Kraft officiating. Military honors will follow the service outside of the funeral home chapel. A gathering of family and friends will then take place at Chrystal’s in Redfield.

The funeral will be live-streamed through a link on the funeral home’s website, below Paul’s obituary in the funeral service panel. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hyke Funeral Home (www.hykefuneralhome.com).

Paul was born on October 16, 1966, in Redfield, to Donna Thomas. He was a one of a kind man. He had a smile that could light up the room in a second. He had a story for anyone that would listen. And he had an “I love you” and a hug for whenever it was time to go.

He has said he has done two things right in the world and they were his daughters. He loved them with his whole heart. If there was anything that could come close to them, it was his grandchildren, Graham and Ivy. They were his absolute world.

To say he was a mama’s boy is an understatement. He was there for his mom, and she was there for him. They kept each other fed and happy and laughing. There was no night where Paul would miss saying “Good night mom, I love you.” It was not out of habit. It was not out of obligation. It was his heart.

Not only was he a loving father, he was an amazing friend. He was there for a hug, a laugh, a drink, a meal, anything he thought would make you smile, he was doing it. He wanted everyone around him to be laughing and happy. That was always the goal.

Paul spent four years in the US Navy. He was such a proud sailor who took pride in serving his country and doing what God called him to do. The stories were endless about his time on and off that boat. Some of them were even accurate. And the brothers he gained during that time were also our family.

He had many passions, but hunting and guns were at the top. He loved guiding, giving tips, teaching his ways, and being surrounded by people who share his love. He knew the best spots and would never keep them for himself. He loved the sport and kept everything true to nature.

The love he had was endless. The people he met became family. The memories he made will never leave. He truly was one of a kind.

Paul is lovingly survived by his family, who will forever cherish his memory: his children, Josie (Kole) DeSpiegler and Gracie Whitley (Peyton Johnson); his grandchildren Graham and Ivy DeSpiegler; his mother, Donna Thomas (Grant Schmidt); his siblings, Jay (Dawn) Whitley, Wade (Beth) Thomas, and Travis (Heather) Thomas; Mike Garry; Dak (McKenzie) Schmidt; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Paul was preceded in death by his father, Terry Thomas; his sister, Monique Diz; his grandparents, Don and Frances Whitley, Clifford and Lucille Thomas; his uncles, Buzzy Schmidt, Gary Whitley, and Ronnie Whitley; and his aunt, Connie Whitley.