Paul D. Lord

Paul Lord entered the world on May 11, 1951, the youngest of six children born to Frank and Ruth Lord. Born in Batavia, he spent most of his childhood there and quickly developed a passion for racing alongside his brothers. From ages 9–16, Paul competed in go-kart circuits at both Limerock and Kelly, ultimately becoming a two-time national champion.

At the same time, Paul’s love of music blossomed. With friends, he formed a band called Paul Banana and the Bunch, a spark that carried his love of music throughout his life.

After graduation Paul moved to Albany to attend the New York State School for the Blind, where he earned a certificate in small engine repair. He went on to work at several local establishments including Mancuso’s Restaurant, Hacienda, and the Sheraton. Paul had a larger than life personality which led him to be a promoter for the Dirty White Boys Band. It was during this time that Paul met his soulmate, Pati, with whom he would share 45 years of marriage.

Paul’s passion for racing shaped much of his life. His father brought him to Mr. Kelly at Kelly’s speedway and his racing love was born. Paul (Bug-z) Lord is credited with promoting the first ever stock car event held at the Genesee Fairground in August of 1979. Paul wrote as a racing reporter for The Daily News, hosted the WBTA radio show The Last Lap, and organized the car show at the Genesee Country Mall which lasted eleven years. Behind the wheel, Paul became known for his iconic number 97 blue and yellow street stock, which he raced at Batavia, Perry, and Lancaster speedways. Among his many victories, his most notable was at Perry Speedway in 1980 which earned him his checkered flag.

Never one to slow down, Paul remained ambitious throughout his life. In the 1990s, he served as a Byron volunteer firefighter, and more recently, he was inducted into the Raceway 5 Hall of Fame for his lifelong contributions to local racing. Over the years, he attended thousands of races, many of which were NASCAR races, cheering for his favorite driver, Kyle Busch, alongside his oldest daughter, Joanie.

Paul will be remembered as a fighter—always rooting for the underdog and consistently beating the odds. Anyone who knew him knew that he would give you the shirt off his back. He loved to have fun and laugh. He was a testament of LOVE.

He is survived by his loving wife, Pati Lord; his children Paul (Jenifer) Lord, Joan (Chad) Liggetto of Batavia, and Chantal Lord of Batavia; and his cherished grandchildren Alexandra Lord, Elle and Kenzie Bechtold, and Zac Scroger, as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-great-nephews, for whom he held a special pride in carrying on the Lord family name. He is also survived by his sister Janette (Phil) Vigneri.

Paul will be deeply missed by his dear friends Charlie Pangrazio, Jeff Lewis, Chester, and by “The Grey One,” his cat Smoky. He is reunited in eternal rest with his parents; his siblings Frank, Maryanne, Joann, and Fred; and his nephew, Frank Lord Jr.

Paul will forever be remembered as a wonderful husband, loving father, devoted grandfather, amazing uncle, and loyal friend.

Family and Friends may call from 4 pm to 6 pm on Wednesday September 17, 2025 at H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street. Services will immediately follow visitation at 6 pm. To honor Bug-Z, friends are encouraged to wear racing or NASCAR attire, Buffalo Bills gear, or blue clothing. Contributions can be made to the family. Also on Saturday September 20, 2025 from 5 pm to 9 pm, a Dessert Celebration of Life will be held at Pine Hill Party Hall in Elba, New York.