Colonel Linton Auburn Paulk, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished friend to many, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2025, at 11:55 AM in his home, surrounded by family. At the age of 90, Colonel Paulk leaves behind a legacy destined to grow in both strength and size. He often shared his gratitude for his family, often remarking, "God has so blessed our amazing family." His recognition of God's grace, alongside his love, faith, and devotion to family, colleagues, and friends, will forever resonate in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him.

Auburn was, above all, a devout Christian whose unwavering faith guided him throughout an extraordinary life. He exemplified the qualities of a true Christian leader, instilling in his family and all who knew him the values of obedience to scripture, hard work, love of family, and a strict devotion to what is right. His compassion, kindness, and integrity were ever-present for those who crossed his path. Auburn's favorite Bible verse was Romans 8:28, "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."

Born in Douglas, a small town in South Georgia, Auburn grew up in a Christian home with his parents, Linda and Auburn Paulk, who were second-generation European immigrants. They lived in rural South Georgia, where he learned the importance of family values and hard work. The Paulk's lived modestly but prioritized education, sending Auburn to Georgia Tech where he graduated with a degree in Industrial Management and served as president of both his freshman and senior class. During college, he met his first wife, Patricia Burdette, and the two were married in 1957. They were married for 27 years until her death in 1985. Auburn is survived by his brother Lewis Paulk, who resides in Florida and had one daughter Tracey married to Ted Drake and they have two children, Tanner and Davis.

Auburn and Patricia had three children: Linda Buchanan, Jeff Paulk, and Kathy Carl. Linda, married to Bill, has two children, Taylor and Colin. Jeff, married to Jan, has two children, William (married to Meghan) and Benjamin (married to Nicole). Kathy, married to David, also has two children: Hunter (married to Katie) and Christopher (married to Hayley). Auburn was also blessed with five great-grandchildren: Evie (3), Aurelia (2), Hosanna(4 month) Fritz (3 months), and Caia (2 weeks), who was born on the same day of Auburn's passing.

After the tragic loss of Pat at the young age of 48, Auburn met and married Martha Sue Eldridge, who became a loving wife, mother, and grandmother until her passing in 2022 at the age of 72. Martha Sue stepped gracefully into her role, providing love and support to the entire Paulk clan.

As a father and grandfather, Auburn was extraordinary at embracing the many roles of coach, mentor, friend and confidant. He encouraged his children and grandchildren to pursue their dreams, celebrated their achievements, and provided steadfast support through life's challenges. He treasured time spent with his grandchildren, guiding them in their spiritual growth and imparting Christian values without hesitation. His wisdom and presence will be deeply missed at family gatherings which he considered his most treasured legacy.

Colonel L.A. Paulk dedicated much of his life to serving his country. His active commission in the Air Force was distinguished by exemplary service, culminating in a stellar career and retirement with honors. His awards included the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, and Commendation Medals. Auburn completed law school at night at the Woodrow Wilson College of Law in Atlanta in 1973 and became one of Georgia's top lawyers, eventually serving as President of the Georgia State Bar for the 2004-2005 term.

Auburn's kindness was infectious, and his willingness to lend a helping hand made him a pillar of the Woodstock community and his neighbors. His favorite hobby was playing golf at Bradshaw Farm, where he found joy and camaraderie with his closest friends, the Bradshaw Boys, a group whose friendships continued to flourish throughout his life.

Please send a donation in lieu of flowers in honor of Linton Auburn Paulk to Antioch Christian Church, 3595 Sugar Pike Road, Canton GA 30115.

Funeral Day Details

Date: 2 Jan 2026 (Friday)

Antioch Christian Church NLT: 9:45am

Processional: 9:50am-10:30am

Depart from Antioch Christian Church for Georgia National Cemetery

Interment: 11:00am-11:30am

Georgia National Cemetery

1080 Scott Hudgens Dr.

Canton GA 30114

Funeral

Antioch Christian Church

3495 Sugar Pike Road

Canton GA 30115

· Visitation: 12:00pm-1:00pm

· Service: 1:00pm-2:00pm

· Reception Lunch: 2:00pm-4:00pm