Sidney Soma Paulo

Sidney Soma Paulo (84) of Lorton, VA passed away peacefully to be with the Lord on Monday, January 12, 2026, at home in the company of his family. Loving husband to Etelvina Fadario Paulo, whom he was married to for 55 years; beloved father to Eufrasio “Rey” Paulo, Cirilo Paulo (Wendy), Jennifer Paulo, Darlene Paulo, and Janet Paulo; cherished grandfather to Nelson Paulo and Camille Paulo. He will truly be missed by many throughout the United States, Portugal, Namibia and his native homeland of Angola. Born Figueiredo Paulo (which he eventually changed to Sidney once he became a US citizen) on August 30, 1941, in the town of Andulo, Bie Province, Angola to humble and God-loving parents, Paulo Kambeu and Laurina Natende Kambeu. He was the third oldest of eight total children. Sidney was known for his intellect, generous heart and warm smile. His deep religious roots were first established at home and then further planted in the education system administered by American and Canadian Protestant missionaries in Angola; which allowed him to be one of the few Africans to complete the colonial Portuguese government’s rigorous academic standards and qualifications to work as a government civil servant. And then eventually he was also awarded an overseas academic scholarship and studied at the University of Arizona, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mining Engineering. He later worked at the political lobby group, Free Angola and as a contractor for Booz Allen. A family-oriented man, whose love was not only shown by his 55-year marriage to Etelvina Paulo, but also the way he raised his children, admired his grandchildren; and cared for his siblings, cousins, in-laws, and numerous nieces and nephews, to many whom he was like a second father. Sidney also had generous heart for service. He worshipped at Grace Presbyterian Church for over 35 years. He loved to bring people together, entertain and celebrate life with people. You could always count on him to help and guide people, whether it was financially, spiritually or emotionally. Relatives and friends will be received at Grace Presbyterian Church, 7434 Bath Street, Springfield, VA 22150 on January 26, 2026, at 10 a.m. for the viewing and service at 11 a.m. Graveside service immediately following at Pohick Cemetery, Lorton, VA 22079. Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Presbyterian Church. Please view and sign the family guestbook at www.jeffersonfuneralchapel.com.

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Sidney Soma Paulo

September 30, 1941 - January 12, 2026