Paul Leonard Gunther Sr.

Paul Gunther, Sr., of Centreville, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 7, 2026, surrounded by his family. Paul was born on April 25, 1951, in Easton, Maryland, to Dorothy and George Gunther. Paul lived a life defined by service, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. Through agriculture, public service, volunteerism, and mentorship, he strengthened his community and touched countless lives throughout Queen Anne's County. After graduating from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture, Paul joined the University of Maryland Cooperative Extension Service, where he dedicated more than three decades to serving the agricultural community. While working with the Extension Service, he earned his master's degree in Entomology from the University of Maryland. Throughout his career, Paul provided farmers with expert guidance in agronomy, crop production, pest management, and agricultural education. He served as County Extension Director and was elected President of the Maryland Association of County Agricultural Agents in 1988. Through his work with Cooperative Extension, he mentored generations of young people and became a trusted resource for farm families throughout Maryland's Eastern Shore. The relationships he built and the lives he influenced extended far beyond the fields he worked, leaving a lasting impact on communities throughout the region. Paul's commitment to service extended far beyond his profession. As a lifelong farmer, community volunteer, and Queen Anne's County Commissioner, he devoted countless hours to improving the community he loved. He helped lead Hurricane Katrina relief efforts, supported youth athletics, raised funds for athletic field lighting at Route 18 Park and Queen Anne's County High School, organized community projects, and cooked meals for thousands at the Queen Anne's County 4-H Fair and other local events. His lifelong dedication to helping others earned him numerous honors, including the Jefferson Award. Yet those who knew Paul best understood that service was never about recognition. If there was a need in Queen Anne's County, chances were Paul was already on his way to help. Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Gay of Centreville, Maryland, whom he married in 1984; his children, Paul Gunther Jr. and his wife, Karen, of Centreville, Maryland; Challice Gunther and his wife, DeAnna, of Chestertown, Maryland; Brandon Moxey and his wife, Nicola, of Centreville, Maryland; and Erin Marsh and her husband, Jaime, of Centreville, Maryland. He cherished his role as "Pop Pop" to his grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and joy. His grandchildren are PJ Gunther (Kenly), Emily Gunther, Abby Gunther, Kole Gunther (Abby), Mitchell Gunther, Alex Moxey, Madison Moxey, Kendal Moxey, Liam Marsh, Lennon Marsh, and Ireland Marsh. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Matt Eastman. In addition to his parents and grandson, he was predeceased by his brother, Robert Gunther. He is survived by his brothers, Kenny Gunther of Centreville, Allen Gunther of Centreville, and Gary Gunther of Wye Mills. Paul leaves behind a legacy measured not by titles or awards, but by the lives he touched, the friendships he built, and the community he helped strengthen. His kindness, generosity, work ethic, and example of service will continue to inspire those fortunate enough to have known him. A life well lived. A community well served. A man who made a lasting difference. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Queen Anne's, Queen Anne's County High School Boosters, or Queen Anne's County 4-H Project Fund, 505 Railroad Ave., Centreville, MD 21617.

Paul Leonard Gunther Sr.

April 25, 1951 - June 7, 2026