Paul E. Cameron Jr. `53

"Aonaibh Ri Che`ile-Let Us Unite" Paul Cameron Jr. was born July 7, 1932, in Tyler Texas, the single and much-loved child of Paul and Barbara Cameron. He spent a happy childhood growing up in Tyler and Wichita Falls, and at 16 enrolled at Texas A&M University in the Corps of Cadets, Squadron 4. During his time in Aggieland, he was on the men’s gymnastics and wrestling teams, participated in the covert assemblage of an aircraft within the newly built Corps dorms, and made friendships which lasted his entire life. 1953 was a banner year for Paul, when he graduated Texas A&M with a degree in Petroleum Engineering and more importantly - married his great love – Ruth Marie Ogden. Together, they would build a family, a business, and a life to be proud of. They welcomed a son (Paul) in 1955 and a daughter (Cynthia) in 1958, and with their family complete the couple settled in Houston, TX where Paul founded Paul E Cameron Jr Incorporated as an Independent Petroleum Engineer in the early 1960s. Never one to rest on his laurels, despite working incredibly hard to build his business, Paul also maintained a pursuit of his passions. He obtained his Private Pilot license and spent many hours in the air with his good friend and fellow pilot Jim Horn. He also purchased land in Walker County to found Highland Ranch and became a long-time supporter of the Walker County Fair. He would proudly display photos of Scramble Heifer recipients and Premium Sale exhibitors in his office, alongside those of his family. Some of his greatest memories came from traveling the world with Ruth, most often with the “Traveling Aggies” program. It was here Paul and Ruth reunited with fellow Class of ’53 couples John and Ann Pierson and Bob and Sue Childress. Together, the group would follow their beloved Aggies to football games across the nation and visit far-flung locales. Paul, John and Bob were especially known for their shenanigans everywhere they went, and they always returned home with stories for their family. Although they could never pick a single favorite trip, one of the most special for Paul and Ruth was visiting Scotland to honor Paul’s Scottish ancestry and having dinner at the Clan Cameron seat of Achnacarry Castle. Paul set an example of work ethic and life-long learning for family and friends, and although “retirement” was a 4-letter word, he did eventually slow down to relocate to Montgomery, TX where he and Ruth became members of The Woodlands Christian Church. He dedicated his later years to spending time with close cousin, Donald Cameron, in the Rio Grande Valley and continuing his deep-rooted support of Texas A&M University. Not only did he encourage his grandchildren to attend, but also gave scholarships in both his and his wife’s name, contributed to the support of the Parson’s Mounted Cavalry, and the Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Museum. He was a 54-year Diamond member of the Century Club, as well as a member of the Hollingsworth 1876 Society. Texas A&M was truly his second home, and he wore his Aggie ring with great pride. While most of the world may have known him as Paul – maybe even “Luap” due to his lifelong game of discovering everyone’s backwards name – his greatest fans knew him as Papa. To his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren he was always the most fun-loving adult in the room. Whether he was walking stealthily behind you until you noticed, tirelessly driving the boat while the kids skied, handing out sage advice, or delivering one of his notoriously awful (but hilarious!) jokes – Papa was always guaranteed to make things fun. More than anything, he set an example of how steadfastly a man can love his wife. He loved to hear his “Ruthie” sing and never failed to show how deeply proud he was to spend his life with her. Their love and marriage truly have been a blessing to us all. Paul passed from this mortal life into the loving arms of the Lord on Tuesday, January 24th with his wife and daughter by his side, singing his favorite hymns. He is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Barbara, as well as his cousin and best friend Mike Carter. He is survived by his beloved wife of 69 years, Ruth Cameron, his son Paul Cameron III (w. Carole) and daughter, Cynthia Cameron Prehoda (p. Charlie Parker). His legacy also includes grand-and great-grandchildren: Lt Col Paul Cameron IV ’04 and Jennifer Cameron ’02, Cooper and Kinsley Cameron, Brandy Prehoda Moses ’06 and Jason Moses, Audrey and Cadence Moses, Brook Cameron - RN, BSN, RNFA, CNOR, Randal Prehoda ’08 and Kayla Gardner, Laikyn and River Ledyard and Trace Prehoda. The family wishes to express their deep gratitude for the many friends who supported Paul during his battle with cancer – especially Phil Wilson, Ben and Michelle Kennett, and Chuck and Peggy Brittan ’65. Your visits, humor, memories, and sincere love were priceless gifts to Paul and his family. You may leave written messages of condolence to his famiy at www.shmfh.com.

Paul E. Cameron Jr. `53

July 7, 1932 - January 24, 2023