Dr. Paul R. Stanley, longtime physician and dedicated supporter of the arts, passed away on Aug. 5, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy of service, generosity, and a deep commitment to the cultural life of Decatur, his hometown. After graduating from Stephen Decatur High School in 1950, he attended Yale University and earned his medical degree from Northwestern Medical School in 1958. He followed his education by serving as a Captain in the U.S. Army Medical Corps.
Alongside his wife, Shirley, Dr. Stanley was a steadfast friend of Millikin University and played an important role in many initiatives, including bringing the Center for Theatre & Dance to life. The Stanleys’ generosity helped create a facility designed to support generations of students, faculty, artists, and audiences. In recognition of their commitment, two spaces in the Center bear their names: the Paul and Shirley Stanley Small Conference Room, and the Paul and Shirley Stanley Classroom.
Dr. Stanley’s support of Millikin’s arts programs extended well beyond mere facilities. He was a loyal supporter of the Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra, the School of Music, and the School of Theatre & Dance. The Stanleys’ philanthropy has also helped bring guests artists to campus to work with students through masterclasses and other educational opportunities.
“Paul Stanley was an extraordinary advocate for the arts and for Millikin students,” said Rick Darnell, Millikin’s Vice President for University Advancement. “His generosity — along with that of his wife, Shirley — has helped strengthen the University’s arts programs and facilities while giving students opportunities to learn from and perform alongside accomplished artists. We are deeply grateful for the lasting impact the Stanleys have made on Millikin and our community.”
The Stanleys’ commitment to the arts was recognized when Millikin nominated them for the Outstanding Philanthropic Supporter of the Arts Award as part of the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation’s 2021 Do Something Great Awards. The couple also received the James Millikin Award, one of the University’s highest honors, recognizing their significant contributions to Millikin and its mission.
Through his generosity, advocacy, and personal involvement, Dr. Stanley helped strengthen the arts as an essential part of the Millikin experience. His impact will be remembered not only through the places that carry his name, but through the many lives enriched by his belief in the transformative power of education, the arts, and community.
Dr. Stanley is survived by Shirley, his wife of 52 years, along with his extended family. His full obituary is available here. Friends and loved ones may honor his memory by contributing to the Dr. Paul Stanley Scholarship Fund at Millikin University.
