Paul V. Fitch II

October 2, 2024

CHARLOTTE – Paul V. Fitch II, beloved father, brother, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home in Charlotte, NC, on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at the age of 77.  Born in Paintsville, KY, on January 31, 1947, Paul lived a full and accomplished life, filled with love for his family, a passion for business, and an unforgettable sense of humor.

Paul attended the University of Kentucky before completing his education at Marshall University in Huntington, WV, where he earned a degree in accounting and became a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).  He began his career with Arthur Andersen, where he worked in the late 1970s and early 1980s, before transitioning into real estate development in the early 1980s.  In 2002, Paul founded Fitch Development Group Inc., specializing in affordable housing.  He took pride in working closely with his son, Hollis, to build communities throughout the southeastern United States.

Over the course of his career, Paul also dabbled in several ventures, including thoroughbred horse racing, farming, commercial nurseries, and commercial construction.  His diverse entrepreneurial pursuits showcased his boundless energy and creativity in business. 

Paul was known for his love of storytelling, frequently retelling stories with slight variations and an amusing habit of forgetting key character names, often creating new ones instead.  Through his playful nature Paul built friendships and created joyful memories with all those he knew.  He was such a special person and cherished presence among family and friends.

When his children were growing up, Paul was an active volunteer, participating in Indian Guides, Scouts, and coaching the church league basketball team for St. Thaddeus in Aiken, SC.  Paul spent his last decade in Hendersonville, NC where he enjoyed hosting barbeques and planning trips with his neighbors.  Paul always looked forward to organizing an annual golf outing with his friends from Williamson High School.  He found joy in traveling the world, watching college football and basketball, and pampering his loyal dog, Winston.  Paul took the time each year to recount that year’s adventures in a Christmas letter that had loyal readers from all seasons of Paul’s life.

Paul leaves behind a legacy through his three children, Brannon E. Fitch and his wife, Charissa Thornton Fitch, Hollis M. Fitch and his wife, Abby Milner Fitch, and Margaret Kendall Fitch Bailey and her husband, Jonathan Bailey; his grandchildren who affectionally called him “Papaw”, Harper E. Fitch, Collier W. Fitch, Henry Fitch, Eleanor Fitch, John “Jack” Fitch, Margot Bailey, and William Bailey to whom he was a devoted grandfather. Also surviving are his brother, Troy Scott Fitch; his sister, Charlotte Fitch and the mother of his children, Dr. Margaret Fitch of Aiken, SC, who was married to Paul for 25 years, and they remained connected through their shared love for their family.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul V. Fitch, Sr. and Ernestine Webb Fitch.

Paul’s life will be celebrated by his family and friends at a gathering from 4:00-7:00 PM on Friday, November 8, 2024, at the Myers Park Country Club, 2415 Roswell Ave, Charlotte, NC.  Per his wishes, all his remaining good bottles of wine will be consumed.   

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Paul’s name to the Community Foundation of Henderson County, 401 N Main St. Ste 300, Hendersonville, NC 28792 or via https://www.cfhcforever.org/for-donors/helene-relief to aid in relief efforts.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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Comments

  • Patrick Stafford

    A fine man who always had a smile and a joke, he will surely be missed by many. RIP "Uncle Paul"

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  • Glenda Jarvi

    Mr. Paul treated us to lunch after a chess match years ago. His kindness and "words" remain a gift..

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  • Loretta Haddy

    The news of Paul’s passing has left me greatly saddened. We were close friends while attending Marshall University and reunited visiting with one another in Charleston WV or by phone which has been fun filled to share memories of our younger years. He lovingly talked about his children and grandchildren often. Though I’ve not met them I feel like I know them by just hearing his stories about them. I sincerely extend my deepest sympathy for his family’s loss and pray God comforts them at this most difficult time.

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  • Emily Beck

    May God bless and comfort Paul’s family and friends. You are in my heart and prayers. ~ Emily

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  • Jack Mullins

    Old college friends

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  • Jack Mullins

    I first met Paul at Marshall University, where we were roommates at the Sig Ep house. He being from Williamson and me from Chapmanville, we became instant friends. I think he gave me the name “Cornflakes” and I gave him the name “Hard-core” because he partied so hard when he got the chance. We never talked to each other after we graduated. He went one way and I come back home to Chapmanville. After 42 years, we contacted each other and stayed in touch. He came to my house once a year and spent the night and had dinner with my family. We talked to him on September 21, 10 days before he passed. He told us about moving into a retirement community. He always told us about how his family and grandkids were doing. His passing is sad but it’s good to know that Paul lived life to the fullest. He will be missed.
    Your friend Jack

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