Obituary of Brian "Paul" Longstreet

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Paul on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at the age of 81.

Born on May 2, 1945, in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, to Cecil John Longstreet and Mary Helen Longstreet (née Godfrey), Paul spent his life building strong connections through family, friendship, and community.

Paul was a strong and stubborn man who stood firmly by his convictions. He had a heart of gold and treated people with respect, kindness, and thoughtfulness. He was always willing to share his advice, knowledge, and opinions—whether you asked for them or not. Those who knew him will remember his honesty, his sense of humour, and his genuine interest in the lives of others.

In 1993, Paul married Gloria Jean Longstreet (née Labadie), beginning a blended family that became the centre of his life. He was a devoted husband who treated Gloria like a princess and remained actively involved in the lives of his family, whether they lived nearby or across the country. He took pride in their accomplishments and always wanted to know what was happening in their lives.

Nothing brought Paul greater joy than his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved hearing about their activities, celebrating their achievements, and watching the family continue to grow.

Paul worked for many years in Inside Sales with Wolseley, where he built lasting friendships and earned the respect of customers and coworkers alike. A proud Canadian, he especially enjoyed spending summers at the family camp in Point Aux Pins, where many cherished memories were made with family and friends. He had a lifelong love of oldies music and classic country, and there was often a familiar tune playing wherever Paul was.

Paul was deeply connected to his community. He seemed to know people everywhere he went and rarely missed an opportunity to stop and chat. One of the qualities that defined him was the importance he placed on paying his respects to others. He seldom missed a visitation or funeral for someone whose life had crossed his path, believing strongly in honouring people and supporting families during difficult times.

Predeceased by his parents, Cecil John Longstreet and Mary Helen Longstreet (née Godfrey); his brother, John Longstreet; and his daughter, Margaret Hall; his brothers-in-law, Lori Newton, Ray Trottier, and Steve Buschemeyer; and his sister-in-law, Donna Buschemeyer.

Paul will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Gloria Longstreet; his children, Stephen Paul Longstreet (Julie), Richard Hall (Billiejo), Michael Hall (Tara), and Claudine Nielsen (Tom); his grandchildren, Eric Longstreet, Alycia Ceballos (Jonathan), David Desjardins, Ashley Gearing (Mike), Kirsten Buchanan (Jamie), Rholonda King-Hall, Tamra-Ann Hall, Sierra-Marie Nielsen, Brandon Nielsen (Sarah), Joshua Nielsen (Magalie), and Nikolaus Nielsen (Lily); his great-grandchildren, Judah and Theodore Ceballos, Tayvin and Mikayla Russon, Jaxon and Amelia Gearing, Tristin and Emery Johnston, and Madelyn Nielsen; his sisters-in-law Linda Newton, Terra Planty (Dick) and Tary Trottier; his brother-in-law Fred Labadie (Joyce); as well as his extended family and many friends.

Paul's legacy is one of loyalty, kindness, family, and friendship. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Friends and family are invited to visit at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758) on Thursday, June 18, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the Memorial Service in the Chapel at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Helen Smith officiating. Memorial donations to the charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses, and staff of Sault Area Hospital for the exceptional care, compassion, kindness, and support shown to Paul and his family during a difficult time. Your dedication and professionalism will not be forgotten.