Paul Duboff (1931–2026) lived 95 years defined by learning, creativity, humor, and connection. Brilliant and endlessly curious, he was interested not only in ideas but in people. He loved asking questions, hearing stories, and understanding what made people who they were. Conversations with Paul often felt like interviews—driven by genuine interest and an inexhaustible engagement with the world around him.

Professionally, Paul built a distinguished career in dentistry and education. He remained especially proud of his years at Columbia University as both a dental student and later an Associate Professor. He was an exceptional dentist whose influence extended beyond patients and students into his own family, inspiring his older son Steven to follow him into the profession.

Curious by nature, Paul immersed himself fully in the people he loved and the interests that captured his imagination. He studied Mandarin to connect more deeply with his daughter-in-law, Dai-Rong, and proudly traveled to Taiwan to celebrate Brian and Dai-Rong's wedding. He explored veganism to better understand his younger son Brian's life and values. His interests ranged widely—art, photography, printing and reproduction techniques, cars, antiques, and countless other subjects that captured his attention.

Paul had a comedian's heart. He loved puns, self-deprecating humor, and jokes that had a way of returning, year after year, as reliably as old friends. He was quick to laugh—especially at himself—and happiest when conversation, humor, and curiosity filled the room. Mel Brooks was the benchmark; Paul liked to think he was closing the gap.

Though artistic talent was apparent from childhood, professional life led him to set art aside for many years. It remained a lifelong passion and flourished in retirement, particularly after moving to Taos at age 85. Pastels became an especially important medium. With Nancy, his partner and companion of nearly twenty years, he left New Jersey—his lifelong home—to begin a new chapter marked by creativity, adventure, and the particular joy of starting something new late in life.

Paul was a loving and generous father—both mentor and friend. He is survived by his sons, Steven and Brian, and will be deeply missed by family and friends.

His younger son, Brian, shared:

“I told Dad to plan for 100. I truly believed we would have more time—more years together in Santa Fe after Nancy passed, more conversations, more ordinary moments together. Ninety-five years was a remarkable life, but from where I sit, it still feels too short. I miss my lifelong best friend.”