MGySgt. Paul Thomas Nixon, Sr. was born on January 23, 1944 in Jacksonville, Alabama to Aaron Jack Nixon, Sr. and Ottis Hughes Nixon. Both parents preceded him in death.

Paul was affectionately know as "Paul", "Top", and "P.T." He accepted Christ at an early age and united with the First Baptist Church, Jacksonville, Alabama. He served faithfully until his call to duty by the United States Marine Corps. After transferring to Albany, he united with the Greater Cutliff Grove Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. McKinley Drake. There he was an encourager, prayer partner to many and a consistent tither who kept his mind on the needs of the church.

He was united with the love of his earthly life, Juanita Cobb Nixon on December 30, 1964 in Los Angeles, California. To this Godly sixty year union of matrimony, two children were born, Paul Thomas Nixon, Jr., whom he referred to as "Joe" and Teon Shelette Nixon, whom he referred to as "Redbone".

He graduated with honors from Eastwood High School in Jacksonville, Alabama, and led a life filled with exciting activities. He had a deep love for basketball, excelling as an all-star athlete, and also took pride in his baseball skills. These athletic talents stayed with him into adulthood, where he actively played and managed teams in Albany and the surrounding communities,

Upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he served his country for thirty years, including two tours in Vietnam. Master Gunnery Sergeant Nixon's love for our nation was undeniable, as he faced adversity with bravery and grace. His journey as a soldier was marked by both triumphs and trials, demonstrating unyielding resilience and determination.  He was not only a leader in the ranks but also a friend and mentor to countless comrades who had the privilege of serving alongside him. During his service  he earned numerous accolades, including two Navy achievement Medals, seven Good Conduct Medals, one Navy Commendation, three Letters of Appreciation, one Certificate of Commendation, one Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, one National Defense Service Medal, one Vietnam Campaign Medal (with device), three Vietnam Service Medals, one Presidential Unit citation, one Meritorious Unit Citation, a RVN MUC Gallantry Cross (with Palm/Frame), and an Expert Badge Rifle.

His legacy will live on through the loved ones he cherished throughout his earthly life. He is survived by his beloved wife of sixty years, Dr. Juanita Nixon; his son, Paul T (Marlisa) Nixon, Jr.; his daughter, Teon Shelette Nixon; his sister, Deloise Keith; four grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; four sisters-in-love, Mary Nixon, Elsia Adams, Johnnie Wilson, and Ruby Keith; and a host of nieces and nephews.