Paul D. Estefan passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026 leaving behind a legacy of distinguished public service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to his community. Throughout a remarkable career spanning more than four decades, Paul devoted his life to protecting, serving, and improving the lives of others through law enforcement, aviation administration, emergency management, and volunteer service.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Sally Estefan; his son, Joseph Estefan and wife Lianne of Tucker, Georgia, and their son Noah; his son, Edward Estefan and wife Catherine of Loudon, New Hampshire, and their children, Clare and Luke; his sister, Harriet and husband Joel of Georgetown, Texas, and their children, Stephanie and Tyler. He was preceded in death by his Mother and Father Gala and Joseph Estefan and his brother, Thomas Estefan.

Paul began his public service career as a Police Officer with the Redding Police Department in Connecticut, serving from 1973 to 1984. In 1984, he joined the City of Danbury as Airport Administrator, a position he held until his retirement in 2019. During his tenure, he successfully led airport planning initiatives, secured more than $25 million in grant funding, and played a pivotal role in the modernization and growth of Danbury Municipal Airport.

In 1992, Paul assumed the additional responsibility of Director of Emergency Management for the City of Danbury. For twenty-seven years, he coordinated emergency preparedness, response, and recovery efforts, serving as a trusted liaison among local, state, and federal agencies. His leadership strengthened public safety and community resilience through comprehensive planning, training, and disaster preparedness programs.

Paul’s commitment to serving others extended far beyond his local community. As a member of FEMA’s Community Relations Cadre, he deployed to disaster-affected regions across the United States, assisting citizens, providing critical information, and supporting recovery efforts. He also held numerous regional emergency management leadership positions throughout Connecticut, helping coordinate preparedness initiatives and training programs across dozens of municipalities.

A lifelong learner and dedicated professional, Paul earned an Associate Degree in Marketing Distribution, graduated from the Connecticut Municipal Police Training Academy, completed specialized law enforcement and emergency management training programs, and held licenses as both a pilot and amateur radio operator.

Outside of his professional career, Paul devoted countless hours to civic, charitable, and fraternal organizations. A proud Mason, he served as Worshipful Master of Union Lodge No. 40 in Danbury, Connecticut, and Ark Lodge No. 39 in Redding, Connecticut. He was also a member of Liberty Hill Masonic Lodge No. 432 in Liberty Hill, Texas.

His community involvement included service on the Housing Authority Board, the Bradley Airport Commission, and the local Draft Board. He supported the American Red Cross and was a member of the Carter L. Marshall Elks Lodge No. 1556 in Danbury. Paul was honored as a Tablet of Honor recipient, a George F. Hixson Fellow, and received the John Conley Award for Heroism. He also held numerous leadership positions within Kiwanis International, including serving as Past Governor of the New England and Bermuda District.

Paul will be remembered for his integrity, wisdom, dedication, and steadfast commitment to public service. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, the communities he strengthened, and the example he set for future generations.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace.