TRIBUTES have been paid to a much-loved and well-known community and family man after he died suddenly over the Christmas period.

Paul Davies, a pharmacist affectionately known by all in Builth Wells and Llanwrtyd Wells as ‘Paul the Chemist’, passed away on Boxing Day. He was 68.

Paul was well known on Builth’s high street for years as the owner of the town pharmacy more recently taken over by Boots. He went on to become the pharmacist in Llanwrtyd for 20 years, until his recent retirement.

He was heavily involved with Builth Rugby Club for many years and also worked with various Builth schools, as well as being a member of Builth Wells Rotary Club, Builth Male Voice Choir, Llandrindod Round Table and Powys Local Health Board (now Powys Teaching Health Board).

Wife Cathy described Paul as the “bedrock” of the family and announced that a service of celebration and thanksgiving is to be held at St Mary's Church in Builth on Saturday, January 13, at 2pm.

County Times: Paul pictured with wife Cathy; together they have two sons, Gareth and Andrew, and daughter Lucy, as well as a granddaughter, Erin. Paul pictured with wife Cathy; together they have two sons, Gareth and Andrew, and daughter Lucy, as well as a granddaughter, Erin. (Image: Davies family)

“It is with enormous sadness that we inform everyone of the unexpected passing of the bedrock of our family, Paul/dad, on Boxing Day,” said Cathy in a touching Facebook post on January 1.

“He was a dedicated, hardworking and passionate Welshman, who always put his family first.

“Known by many as ‘Paul the Chemist’, he devoted 43 years working as a pharmacist, always helping those around him.

“Commitment to supporting his local community was central to his life and over the years he was involved in Builth Wells Rugby Club, Llandrindod Round Table, Powys LHB, Builth Wells Rotary, Builth schools and more recently he loved being a member of Builth Male Voice Choir.

“Words cannot describe the immeasurable loss and shock we are feeling and we would like to thank all those who have sent their messages of support and love.

“There will be a service of celebration and thanksgiving to be held Saturday, January 13, at St Mary's Church, Builth Wells, at 2pm. All are welcome to attend.

“Donations in lieu of flowers will be shared between Hear to Help and the Salvation Army. Nos da cariad x.”

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Builth Rugby Club posted their own tribute, saying: “We are very sorry to hear the sad news that Paul Davies (Paul the Chemist) has passed away. 

“Paul was a past secretary and sponsor to our club and always a big supporter. Our thoughts are with all of Paul's family at this sad time.”

Llangammarch Community Council posted on its Facebook page, describing Paul and Cathy as having “worked tirelessly” to serve the local community.

“(We) are sad to report the death of Paul Davies who served as pharmacist to Llanwrtyd and surrounding areas for over 20 years,” read the post.

“Paul will be remembered as someone who really cared about his patients, helping and advising them in many difficult circumstances.
“He and Cathy worked tirelessly to ensure that people had their medication, particularly during the pandemic when they were there throughout, often delivering prescriptions to those unable to get out and about.

“He was enjoying a well-earned retirement that has now sadly been cut short. Paul will be missed by this community (and) our thoughts and hearts go out to Cathy and his family, who supported Paul during his long service at Llanwrtyd and through to the end.”

In addition to Cathy, Paul leaves behind three children; sons Gareth and Andrew, and daughter Lucy, as well as a granddaughter called Erin.