Paul Zucca Obituary

ZUCCA, Paul D.

Paul D. Zucca passed away unexpectedly at his home on October 31, 2024. Paul was born July 1947 in Rome, New York, to Donald and Mary Zucca.

Paul is survived by his longtime life partner, John Newcomb; their son and daughter-in-law, Dylan and Andrea Greathouse; grandchildren, Lilanah and Braxton of Belfre, Ohio; his sister and brother-in-law, Michelle and James Kakoullis, Sr.; and niece and nephews, Julia, Alex, and James Kakoullis, Jr., of Tampa, Florida.

Paul's life and legacy is an inspiration for all who knew him. He was known for his compassion, kindness, dedication to his friends, and commitment to his community. He was deeply involved in countless local activities, boards, and authorities, and was an eminent civic leader in Atlanta for more than 30 years.

A consummate preservationist, he and John lived in Grant Park for decades where he was instrumental in assisting in his neighborhood's revitalization.

He served as President of the Grant Park Neighborhood Association and the Chair of NPU-W, his area's Neighborhood Planning Unit. He was a tireless advocate for Grant Park, Zoo Atlanta, and the Neighborhood Charter School, and worked to bring amenities and improvements to them all.

Paul received his B.A. from the University of New England in 1969, his M.A. Government degree from Loyola University Graduate School in 1972, and his J.D. Law degree from John Marshall Law School in 1975.

Paul had a successful career with Atlanta University Center, Georgia Department of Transportation, and, for the last 42 years, as Executive Vice President for Del Mar Enterprises.

Paul and John enjoyed owning and operating local IHOP restaurants for many years. As the proprietors of the IHOP at the intersection of Piedmont and North Avenue, they became friends with many notable politicians and elected officials. Paul believed strongly in helping promote candidates for office with unwavering passion and a remarkable commitment of time and energy and did so throughout his life.

There will be a memorial/celebration of life at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, 353 Peachtree Street, NE on Saturday, November 16 at 11:00 AM with a gathering following the service in Grant Park at 504 Hill Street, SE. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to Zoo Atlanta.

(https://give.zooatlanta.org/zuccamemorial)