Sergeant First Class Paul Welby Obituary, Cause of Death: Scranton Community Mourns Army Veteran Lost After Cancer Battle

Scranton Community Mourns Sergeant First Class Paul Welby

The Scranton, Pennsylvania, community is mourning the death of Sergeant First Class Paul Welby, a respected Army veteran who died following a battle with esophageal cancer.

Welby’s passing has brought grief to his family, friends, fellow service members and the many people who rallied around him during his illness. Local reporting previously documented the community’s efforts to support him as he underwent treatment for cancer.

Paul Welby Cause of Death

Paul Welby died after battling esophageal cancer. Recent local reporting confirms that his illness ultimately claimed his life after a rapid decline.

Welby’s family had previously said they believed his cancer may have been connected to burn-pit exposure during his military service. That possible connection should be described cautiously, as it was a belief shared by his family rather than an independently established medical determination.

A Life Dedicated to Military Service

Welby devoted nearly two decades to the United States Army. His military service included deployments to Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, according to reporting from FOX56.

His service became an important part of his identity and legacy. Fellow veterans and members of his community recognized him not only for his military career but also for his willingness to help others.

Welby was also involved with organizations supporting veterans, including the Fight for Vets and the Jan Argonish Ride, according to his family.

Welby’s Battle With Cancer

Welby’s cancer diagnosis became known publicly in 2025, when his family and supporters organized community events to help him through treatment.

A fundraiser at VFW Post 25 in Scranton drew substantial community support. Family members described the response as emotional and overwhelming, highlighting the strong network of veterans, friends and neighbors who stood behind Welby during his illness.

His story also drew attention to concerns surrounding serious illnesses among veterans and the potential health consequences of environmental exposures during military deployments.

Remembering Paul Welby

For those closest to him, Paul Welby was much more than his military rank.

He was a family member, friend, veteran and community supporter who was known for putting others first. His family previously described him as someone who was always willing to help people in need.

His determination throughout his cancer battle added another dimension to the legacy he leaves behind. Even as his health declined, his story continued to inspire support from the Scranton community and fellow veterans.

Community Support and Tributes

The outpouring of support surrounding Welby’s illness demonstrated the impact he had on people throughout the area.

Veterans, neighbors, friends and community members gathered to raise funds and offer encouragement while he underwent treatment. The response reflected the close bonds that can form within military and veteran communities.

His death now leaves those same communities grieving the loss of someone they had worked to support during his final battle.

Funeral and Memorial Arrangements

Official funeral and memorial arrangements for Sergeant First Class Paul Welby should be confirmed through his family or the funeral home handling his services.

At the time of this report, complete details regarding visitation, funeral services, military honors or a celebration of life were not available from the authoritative sources reviewed.

Family members are expected to provide further information when arrangements are finalized.

A Legacy of Service and Courage

Paul Welby’s life was defined by service — first through his military career and later through his involvement with the veteran community.

His battle with esophageal cancer brought a painful final chapter, but it also revealed the strength of the relationships he had built throughout his life. The support shown by Scranton residents, veterans and his family demonstrated how deeply he was valued.

Sergeant First Class Paul Welby will be remembered for his military service, his dedication to fellow veterans, his resilience during illness and the people he helped along the way.

Our condolences go to his family, friends, fellow soldiers, veterans and everyone who supported him during his cancer battle.

Information here is for general information purposes only. Details concerning Paul Welby’s obituary, funeral arrangements, military honors and celebration of life should be confirmed through his family, funeral home or other authorized sources.