Paul E. Stutes, 87, of Bedford, passed away January 10, 2026, at his home after being diagnosed with cancer in May. He was born on December 13, 1938, in Rayne, Louisiana, to the late Joseph Roy and May Lillian (Broussard) Stutes. He married Jane Conrad on September 26, 1979, in Atlanta, Georgia, and she survives.

Paul graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1957 and then from the University of Southern Louisiana. He worked as a civil engineer for the U.S. Forest Service for the entirety of his career. He retired after 30 years of service in 1995.

Paul is survived by his wife, Jane Stutes and their dog, Daisy; daughters, Julie (Chris) Galloway and Susan Diekhoff; son, Neil Stutes; grandchildren, Mila, Cora, Hazel, Kyle, Ryan, Aaron, Matt, Beth, and Brad; several great-grandchildren; brother, Philip Stutes; brother in law Charley Conrad, friend, Vicki Carey, several nieces and nephews, and many relatives and friends.

Preceding him in death is his daughter, Monique Roberts; parents, Roy and May Stutes; sister, Martha Stutes; and brothers, Joseph Roy (Bubba) Stutes Jr. and Ivan Stutes.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, doctors, health professionals, and hospice caregivers for their devoted care of Paul. May God bless them for their compassionate service, which brought peace and comfort to our family.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00am on Friday, January 16, 2026, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 1723 I Street, Bedford, Indiana 47421, with Father Jegan Peter officiating. Visitation will be held Friday, January 16, 2026, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m.

Memories may be shared, condolences sent, and flowers ordered at www.ThorneFunerals.com.

The staff of Ferguson-Lee Chapel of Thorne Family Funeral Homes is honored to have been entrusted with the care of Paul Stutes.