The Red Devils will honor one of their own at this month’s homecoming festivities. Business owner and philanthropist Paul Lingle is Richmond High School Alumni Association’s 2026 Distinguished Alumnus, and he will serve as the grand marshal for RHS’ Homecoming parade on Sept. 9.
RHSAA members surprised Lingle with the honor in June and will recognize him for his professional accolades during the Friday, Sept. 11, homecoming football game.
“Paul exemplifies what it means to be a distinguished alumnus,” said Rachel Hughes, RHSAA executive director, in the newsletter. “His leadership and dedication to this community make him a truly deserving recipient.”
Lingle said the special honor was a surprise, noting that past recipients have not only been successful in their careers, but in service to their communities.
After graduating in 1959, Lingle attended college and worked in marketing before returning to Richmond in 1969. To join the business community, one had to “earn your stripes” by joining committees that supported community initiatives. Lingle says being a product of his parents and Richmond Community Schools prepared him to take advantage of these opportunities.
Lingle has since shaped the Richmond community through various economic development and philanthropic initiatives, according to the RHSAA newsletter. As owner and president of a prominent real estate firm, he’s made contributions to residential and commercial growth in the region.
Apart from his professional life, Lingle and his wife, Pat, have been supporters of community enrichment programs, from healthcare to education and the arts, with a focus on bettering the quality of life.
“It becomes automatic when you’ve been molded into that frame of support,” said Lingle.
A version of this article appeared in the September 2 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.