Michael James Pauley, 58, of New Castle, Va., passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026, at his home. He was born on May 23, 1968, to the late James E. and Mary Taylor Pauley. He was a graduate of New Castle High and completed his associate’s degree from Dabney Lancaster Community College. Michael devoted 30 years of service to the Simmonsville Volunteer Fire Department in Newport. He also had over 30 years of service with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT).
Michael enjoyed the simple things in life. He was the happiest when he was outdoors cutting a load of wood, looking for deer on his beloved land on Sinking Creek or operating any type of equipment. He had a multitude of friends and neighbors that could always depend on him when in need.
Left to cherish his memory include his brother, Mark A. Pauley and his fiancée, Saprina Wright along with his loving Aunt Janice Price and Uncle Glenn Taylor and many cousins.
A funeral service to celebrate his life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, at Bethel United Methodist Church, 11599 Cumberland Gap Rd., New Castle, Va., with Pastor Jay Law and Reverend Adam Sowder officiating. Burial will follow at Ross Cemetery in New Castle. Members of the Simmonsville Volunteer Fire Department will serve as pallbearers.
Friends may visit with the family from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, at the Paitsel Funeral Home chapel.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Simmonsville Volunteer Fire Department, 5783 Cumberland Gap Rd., Newport, Va., 24128.
