Paul R. "Yogi" Cavender, of Simpsonville, left this world on his 63rd birthday, April 30, 2025.

Born in Laurens, he was a son of the late Paul and Sharlene Mollenkop Cavender. Yogi found joy in life's simple pleasures, spending cherished moments with family and friends and was a devoted father and grandfather. He was a retired US Army Veteran serving with the 122nd Battalion Engineer National Guard for over 23 years. Yogi embraced life with a unwavering motto: "God, family, and country," which reflected his values and the love he held for those around him. A passionate truck driver for Food Lion, Paul approached every mile with diligence and purpose. As an avid Gamecock fan, Paul relished the camaraderie of tailgating, where he would cheer for his team, surrounded by friends and family. His love for socializing and connecting with others always lit up a room, and he had an unmatched ability to make everyone feel welcome. In his downtime, Paul found joy in the rich sounds of good music, often turning up the volume to enjoy music that resonated with his spirit. He was a member of Zoar Church.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Robin McInville.

Surviving are his children, Paula Hilton and Shannon Jones (Chris); sisters, Becky Shedd (Curtis) and Rejeana Whitfield (Kenneth); brothers, Roderick Cavender (Teresa) and Tommy Cavender (Karen); grandchildren Lillian Hilton, Gabriel Hilton, Wesley Massey and Mackenzie Roberts.

Services will be held at 2pm on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Zoar Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Jeffery Whitfield, Preston Gable, Tim Turner, Eric Massey, Kevin McAllister and Scottie Yearwood.

Honorary escort will be Ed Wideman.

The family will receive friends on Monday at Harley Funeral Home from 6-8pm.

The family is at the home of his daughter, Paula Hilton, 304 Lane Avenue, Saluda.