Paul Donald Townsend

Paul Donald Townsend, 87, of Edenton, NC, husband of 58 years to Kathleen (Kitty) Bell Townsend, died peacefully November 7, 2015, surrounded by his family. He was born December 1, 1927, in Chicago, Illinois, son of Paul Donald Townsend, Sr. and Helen Lindahl Townsend. His parents, a brother, and a son preceded him in death. Surviving are his wife, three daughters, Elizabeth L. Townsend of Edenton, Nancy P. Townsend of Durham, Julia H. Townsend and husband Lincoln Adams of Dubai and Edenton, and a son, Robert L. Townsend of Corning, New York. Upon high school graduation, he was selected for the ASTP (Army Specialized Training Program) and served in the US Army at the end of World War II and again in the Korean War. A graduate of the University of Chicago, Paul was a strong advocate of the Great Books Program. His love of reading and ideas stayed with him all his life. His long career in marketing management began with twelve years at Procter and Gamble, where he met his wife, and continued at H.J. Heinz Co., Philip Morris, and the New York Times. In his later career, Paul was a consultant to such major companies as Nabisco, Borden, Campbell Soup, Con-Agra, Gulf & Western, Ralston Purina, and others. His work often took him abroad, including a stay of several years in Paris for him and his family. Paul will be remembered for his love of his family and the Episcopal Church, beginning with his years as a choirboy in Chicago. He was also known for his green thumb, both in his garden and indoors, lively discussions around the dinner table with well-chosen wines, and his fondness for Edenton, his last home. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory can be made to St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Edenton. Online remembrances/condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.