Paul Joseph Weightman

Paul Joseph Weightman, 73, of Oakland, NJ, passed away at home on January 8, 2026.

Paul was, in the simplest and truest sense, a good man. He lived a life defined by quiet strength, steady love, and unwavering loyalty. He was humble, kind, intelligent, and genuinely funny — a true gentleman in every way. Above all else, Paul loved his family. He was loving and supportive, and made everyone around him feel safe, cared for, and valued.

Paul was born on June 1, 1952, in Coventry, England, to Barbara and Joe Weightman. In 1982, he emigrated to Oakland, NJ with his wife and daughter in pursuit of a better life — building a home rooted in love, hard work, and family.

He loved returning to England for Christmas to visit his brother Peter, sister-in-law Kim, and niece Laura. In later years, weekly video chats became a constant source of joy and connection.

Paul was married to the love of his life, Barbara, for 54 years. Their story began when they were just 15 years old, when Barbara helped him with his German homework. From that moment on, they were inseparable. Their love was the kind people admired — full of devotion, laughter, and true partnership. They married in 1972 and welcomed their beloved daughter, Emma, in 1979.

Paul’s family was his world — made even fuller when Emma married her husband Ryan, and when Paul became “Grandpa” to his treasured grandsons, Kieran Robert and Liam Paul. Paul became a cherished part of Ryan’s family, the O’Keefe’s, who truly became his own.

Paul was a hardworking and steady presence throughout his life. He spent 50 years as a tool and die maker in the jewelry industry — a career that reflected the qualities he lived by: skill, precision, dedication, and pride in doing things the right way.

Paul loved the simple joys of life: traveling the world, sharing a great meal, and enjoying a nice drink. His favorite place of all was down the shore with his family. In his younger years, he loved playing football (soccer), and throughout his life he enjoyed watching matches with those he loved. He was always a whiz at Jeopardy or Trivial Pursuit, and he loved music — especially The Beatles. Paul was always the last to leave a gathering, savoring time with family and friends, and he was also always the first to shed a happy or sentimental tear.

Paul is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara; his cherished daughter, Emma; his beloved son-in-law, Ryan; and his adored grandsons, Kieran and Liam — his “boys,” who brought him endless pride and joy. He is also survived by his beloved brother, Peter; sister-in-law, Kim; niece, Laura; and grand-niece and grand-nephew, Isabelle and Isaac, all of whom he loved dearly.

Paul was predeceased by his beloved mother, Barbara, and his father — and best friend — Joe. He was also predeceased by his Aunt Sue and Uncle Pete, with whom he shared a special bond. He was also recently predeceased by his much-loved grand-dog, Jameson.

Paul will be missed beyond measure, but his love and presence will remain with his family always.

Donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Paul’s memory

https://www.stjude.org/donate