Paul Anthony Whitlow, 85, of Poquoson, Virginia, passed away on Saturday, May 30, 2026, after a brief illness.
Paul was born in Jarratt, Virginia, to Elizabeth Wyche Fuller and Paul Ludson Whitlow. He graduated from high school in Morocco and later returned to the United States.
Paul worked at the Newport News Shipyard for 13 years before beginning a long career with the Newport News Police Department, where he served from 1973 until 2003. During his distinguished law enforcement career, Paul became the first person at the Newport News Police Department to be promoted directly from Patrol Officer to Lieutenant, completely bypassing the rank of Sergeant. He was qualified as an expert marksman/sniper and, early in his career, served on details providing protective overwatch during dignitary visits to Newport News, including the September 30, 1975, arrival of Emperor Hirohito and Empress Nagako of Japan at Patrick Henry Airport (now Newport News/Williamsburg Airport).
Paul valued education throughout his life. He earned an Associate Degree from Thomas Nelson Community College, a bachelor’s Degree from Christopher Newport College, and a Master’s Degree from Golden Gate University. Paul was also a Graduate of the Southern Police Institute at the University of Louisville.
As a devoted member of his community, Paul was a founding member of the Poquoson Museum in 2001 and ultimately served as its President from 2011 until his recent illness forced his retirement from this role.
Paul was a member of the Junior Order of United American Mechanics (J.O.U.A.M) Lodge in Poquoson. Additionally, he had received membership in the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels, a distinction reserved for those who have demonstrated remarkable community service and lifelong merit. In 2017, Paul and his wife Barbara were recognized with the Book of Golden Deeds Award from the Poquoson Exchange Club.
Paul will be remembered for his dedication to public service, his commitment to preserving local history, and his deep love for his family.
Paul Anthony Whitlow is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Barbara Hudgins Whitlow; his son, Tony Whitlow and wife Patty; his daughters, Kimmie Harrison and husband John, and Natalie Cannella and husband Rich; his grandchildren, Meagan Kuhn and husband Erik, Lauren Clark and husband Cameron, Victoria Whitlow and fiancé Zach, Toni-Anne Whitlow, Michael Merchant and fiancé Lauren, Preston Herb, Richie Cannella and wife Lauren, and Travis Cannella and fiancé Maddie; and his great-grandchildren, Oliver, Arabella, and Juliette Kuhn, and Grayson, Alexis, and Landon Clark, who all lovingly referred to him as “Bampy” and “Pa”. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Catherine Scheuring, and his beloved cats, Nala and Max.
Paul was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Wyche Fuller, and stepfather, Donald Fuller; his father, Paul Ludson Whitlow, and stepmother, Lillian Whitlow; and his sisters, Linda Yarbrough and Rosie Hartsell.
A visitation is planned at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd. Newport News, VA, on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
A memorial service with police honors will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 1294 Poquoson Ave., Poquoson, VA. Interment will immediately follow the service at Weston Cemetery, 1436 Poquoson Ave.
Following the service and interment, the family will receive friends and family for a Celebration of Life at The Spot 757, located at 501 Wythe Creek Road, Poquoson, VA.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in honor of Paul to the Poquoson Museum, 968 Poquoson Ave., Poquoson, VA 23662.
“The true measure of a peacekeeper is not found in the storms they weather, but in the peace they leave behind. Lieutenant Paul Anthony Whitlow faced the very hardest sides of humanity with grace and an unwavering sense of justice. Having answered his final call, Paul has traded his earthly uniform for a well-earned rest, his spirit now finds enduring tranquility beyond the noise of this world. May his memory be a guiding light for us all.”