Crossville, TN - It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Leland "Paul" Bame, 86, who departed this life peacefully on Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, at Vanderbilt Hospital, Nashville, TN.

Paul was born July 22, 1939, in Findlay, OH to R. Galen and Gladys (Dible) Bame. He is survived by his wife Sandy of 29 years; seven children, Bruce (Julie) Bame; Jodi (John) Kavrik; Wendy (Randy) Wentling, Kiley Bame; Randy (Tammy) Desposito; Angie (Howard) Felice; and Larry (Michelle) Desposito; a sister, Virginia Lee; 15 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great pride and joy.

Paul was preceded in death by his brother, Eldon Bame, and a sister, Nancy Hotelling.

Paul worked at Cooper Tire and Rubber for 40 years and after retiring moved to Fairfield Glade. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and will be remembered for his dry sense of humor, steady hand and unwavering love for the game of golf.

Paul spent his life embracing the values of patience, integrity and perseverant qualities that served him well on and off the course. Whether he was playing the back nine with close friends or coaching his grandchildren on their swing, golf was more than a pastime. It was his passion.

To Paul, golf was a metaphor for life: you play the ball where it lies, take the rough with the smooth, and always strive for the next shot to be better than the last. He approached life with that same quiet resilience and grace. Though he has played his final round, his legacy of kindness, laughter and the occasional hole-in-one will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.