Aiden James Paul

Kaplan—Aiden James Paul was born on February 9, 2010, a 6lb 7oz baby boy who would become the light of not only his family's lives but also of many others. He was a happy, healthy, and wonderfully chaotic little character, bringing joy and laughter wherever he went. For nine beautiful years, Aiden lived his life with boundless energy and love.

Then, cancer struck. Aiden was diagnosed with Stage 4 Metastatic Medulloblastoma, a battle that he faced with unimaginable courage. He underwent surgery, biopsies, radiation, and chemotherapy, enduring treatments that took a heavy toll on his young body. Despite the pain, Aiden fought fiercely, and remission, though brief, was a precious gift. For a time, we saw glimpses of the vibrant boy we knew, as Aiden began to return to us.

But the cancer returned with a relentless force, spreading quickly. Aiden once again fought with every ounce of strength he had, trying every option available, but this time, there was no improvement. We were told he had 13 months. During this time, we made every moment count. We started a bucket list, traveled, and cherished our time together as a family. We surrounded Aiden with love, inviting others to join us in showing him just how deeply he was cherished. Over 300 people came together to celebrate Aiden's 13th birthday, a day filled with love and joy—an unforgettable gift.

Aiden's 14th birthday marked the end of those 13 months. We spent this time with him, waiting for him to be ready to leave us. Aiden's life was not lost; he fulfilled his purpose, completing his soul's journey. He left this world having taught us invaluable lessons. Aiden showed us what it means to be brave, to be scared, to be grateful, to give, to be compassionate, and most importantly, to love without limits.

Aiden was a teacher in his own right, reminding us all to cherish life and love one another. His impact will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him.

Visitation honoring Aiden’s life will be held at Vincent Funeral Home in Kaplan, 300 N. Eleazar Avenue, Friday, August 23, 2024 from 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM; and Saturday, August 24, 2024 from 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM.

Aiden is survived by his mother, Stephiney Leleux and her husband, Garrett Granger; his younger siblings, Scarlett Jayde-Ryan Carnes, Reis Conner Carnes, Aroura Carnes, and Ryder J. Paul; his biological father, Robert Paul; and his dad, Joseph Carnes; his grandparents, Nana Barbara Amanda Bernard, Nonie Jane Paul, Poppop Carl Paul; and great grandmother, Granny Anita Trahan.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Ryan Paul LeLeux Sr.; and his great grandparents, Odillon & Gertrude LeLeux of Kaplan, Clair Marie and Thomas Blake, James Neal and Erma Geraldine Paul, and Chalawan and Jack Trembczynski.