Paul Wayne Bartlett, 79, of Howardwick, Texas, passed away on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.

Paul was born on January 19, 1947, in Bethany, Missouri, to Orville and Lucille Bartlett. He attended Palo Duro High School and dedicated 30 years of service to the Amarillo Fire Department, retiring as Assistant Chief.

Like many firefighters, Paul was a true jack of all trades. He held a commercial driver's license and spent time driving semi-trucks, operating heavy equipment, and mowing yards. He was well known and well-loved in his community and especially enjoyed coaching his children in youth sports.

Following his retirement from the Amarillo Fire Department, Paul continued serving others as a member of the Howardwick Volunteer Fire Department, a correctional officer, and later as a houseparent at Boys Ranch. Above all, he cherished spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Some of his favorite moments were teaching his grandchildren to drive, spending summer weekends at the lake, and enjoying many breakfast dates with them. He also loved attending happy hour with friends in Howardwick and playing his favorite card game, "31."

Paul married the love of his life, Retta Bluejacket on June 6, 1964, in Amarillo, Texas. Together they built a life centered on God, family, hard work, and service to others.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Lucille Bartlett; and his siblings, Lois Howery, Mary Preston, Wilma Lovitt, Marge Beard, Bud Bartlett, Janice Heft, Joyce Kimmons, and Alan Bartlett.

Paul is survived by his wife, Retta Bartlett; his two daughters, Pamela Milbern and husband Jarrod of Amarillo, Texas, and Belinda Allan and husband Jim of Topeka, Kansas; his son, Timothy Bartlett and wife Kristy of Amarillo, Texas; seven grandchildren, Samantha Milbern, Sydney Burrell, Brock Milbern, Tiffany Watkins, Marissa Thompson, Bryne Gonzales, and Kameron Bartlett; and six great-grandchildren, McKynzley Casas, Alijah Casas, Kyler Seim, Karsyn Seim, Aubrey Watkins, and Austyn Watkins.

The family welcomes visitors to celebrate Paul’s life and share memories with those who knew and loved him. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.