July 27, 1946 – January 5, 2024
SOUTHERN SHORES — Dr. Paul Thomas Schollaert of Southern Shores, NC, died peacefully on January 5, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Paul was born July 27, 1946, to the late Albert and Alice Schollaert in Pittsburgh, PA, where he grew up the oldest of six boys. In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by brothers Mark (Judy) and Robert (Wendy). He is survived by his wife Andrea, daughters Molly O’Keefe and Victoria (Tory) Schollaert, granddaughter Melinda O’Keefe, brothers Albert (Karen), Richard (Charlynne), and Tommy Schollaert, and sister-in-law Ardith Peck.
Along for life’s journey was Paul’s high school sweetheart and later wife of over 55 years, Andrea. Together, two city kids from Pittsburgh, PA, built an amazing life of love and family. Their marriage defined what a relationship could be, a true partnership throughout the years. Paul enjoyed travel and woodworking. He loved music, regularly bested opponents in trivia, and was an avid cyclist, riding 60 miles for his 60th birthday.
A 1967 graduate from Penn State, he went on to earn his master’s degree and Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin Madison in 1972. Paul had a long and productive career in higher education, academics, and research. Starting as an assistant professor at the University of South Carolina, he then served a long tenure at Old Dominion University, culminating in the role of Associate Dean of Arts and Letters. Putting down roots there in Norfolk, VA, it is also where the family discovered the Outer Banks of North Carolina, which would become Paul and his wife’s post-career home. Paul later served as Dean of Arts and Sciences at Illinois State University, finally retiring as Provost and VP of Academic Affairs at Eastern Michigan University.
Paul was a fierce advocate of social justice and believed strongly in civic engagement and giving a voice to the voiceless. In more recent years, he dedicated time to the Southern Shores Civic Association, maintaining crossovers and installing channel markers in the Currituck Sound.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to a cause important to you. The best way to honor Paul’s legacy is to be a positive member of your community, a good friend, a good neighbor, and to never stop fighting the good fight.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
