Paul Douglas Minor, 77
Paul Douglas Minor died peacefully in his sleep on August 3 at Highland Hospital in Rochester, New York, surrounded by loved ones. He was 77.
Paul was a man of rare kindness, generosity, and empathy, and he will be dearly missed by his beloved wife, Judy Bennett; his son and daughter-in-law, Travis and Rebecca Minor; his brother David; nieces, nephews, and cousins; and by all who had the good fortune to know and love him.
Born on September 2, 1947, to Christine and David Minor, Paul grew up in Batavia, New York, alongside his brothers, David and James, and close cousins Peter, Steve, and Michael. He developed a lifelong love of the water during summers on Conesus Lake with his grandmother, Nellie Travis. There, he learned to scuba dive, discovered sailing, and began a lifelong relationship with open water that culminated in many happy hours aboard his sailboat, Mariah.
Paul attended Syracuse University, where he earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in architecture. It was there that he met his first wife, Susan Minor, to whom he would be married for more than 30 years. After moving to Acton in the early 1970s, Paul developed a profound appreciation for music and theater. He pursued this passion as a member of the Acton Chorus and as a producer for Acton Players productions at 51 Walden, including a memorable production of “The Music Man,” which featured a live horse on stage. Paul made many dear friends during his years in Acton, where he was an active participant in many local organizations including First Parish Church, Acton Community Chest, and The Jericho Road Project.
As an architect, Paul specialized in working with existing buildings, taking joy in solving complex design challenges. His thoughtful work can be seen in many well-known buildings in the Greater Boston area. Throughout his career, Paul gave generously of his time and expertise, and he is especially proud of his pro bono work with churches and non-profit organizations. Notably, in 2006, he helped the United Teen Equality Center (UTEC) in Lowell to identify a suitable building for its new home, which later became the oldest Platinum LEED-certified building in the country.
In 2008, Paul returned to Rochester, where he met and fell in love with Judy Bennett, with whom he shared 17 happy years. Together, they championed social justice, access to affordable housing, LGBTQIA+ rights, and support for Rochester’s refugee community. Paul continued to provide pro bono services for local non-profit organizations, he served as president of the Rochester Northwest Rotary Club, and he was deeply involved in Peace Village and City Roots Land Trust, continuing the community-driven work that defined his life.
Paul was fortunate to have two communities he considered home. He carried with him fond memories of Acton — sandwiches from Country Kitchen, marching in the Patriots Day Parade, and breakfasts at Helen’s with his son. Even after moving away, he stayed connected to the town, its news, and the community he cherished.
Paul lived with a profound sense of purpose and an unshakeable belief in the power of community. Even in his final days, he offered guidance and encouragement to his many visitors, inspiring them to continue the work he cared for so deeply. He faced the end of his life with grace, courage, and a comforting reminder to all who knew him: “Community is everything.”
Arrangements are entrusted to Alvah Halloran & Son Funeral Home in Rochester. A celebration of Paul’s life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the United Teen Equality Center (utecinc.org), or to your local public radio station, in honor of Paul’s lifelong commitment to community.
