James Paul (68) of Annandale, VA passed away peacefully in Manchester, NH on

February 26, 2026. Born in Atlanta, GA on July 16, 1957. He was the son of Hinton Paul Jr and Martha Sue Barcynski (Martin). James graduated from J.W.Robinson High School in Fairfax, VA in 1975. He then earned a Bachelor of Science from Georgia Institute of Technology. From there he returned to the Washington, DC area and spent his 25-year career serving as a senior advisor for the United States House of Representatives Committee on Science and Technology.

James enjoyed reading his thirty-one daily newspapers and magazine subscriptions. Along with being a lifelong avid reader, he also enjoyed collecting art and attending Washington Nationals games. He had a passion for the space program from Apollo to the Space Shuttle. The original Star Trek was his favorite show, and he could easily recount the plot lines for all 79 episodes from memory.

James was predeceased by his loving father Hinton Groves Paul Jr. and his stepfather C.A. Barcynski II.

He is survived by his mother Martha Barcynski (Martin) of New Bern NC. His siblings John Barcynski (Lori), Susan Ahern (Jim) and Evan Paul (Christina) His nieces and nephews Steven Barcynski, Jimmy Ahern (Elyssa) Colleen Geddes (Greg), Kristen Knapp (late Woody)

Michael Ahern (Miranda), Alice, Clara and Lydia Paul. His great nieces and nephews Jacob, Logan, Sophie, Olivia and Hannah. His aunts Cornelia Willett (Michael) and Ann Hartman (Harry) His stepmother Donna Brandmeyer (Bob Davis). He is also survived by many cherished cousins and friends.

James’ family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Elliot VNA and especially the compassionate staff at Courville for their loving care.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

It is suggested that those who wish may make memorial contributions to Friends of the Smithsonian, The Monterey Bay Aquarium (Monterey, CA) or send someone you love a Harbor Sweet Advent Calendar.