The state of Arkansas woke up this morning and was stunned to hear of the passing of Paul Eells last night in an auto accident. The accident involved two cars, and the driver of the other car was killed as well.

For those unfamiliar with Arkansas and sports in this state, Paul - while not a native Arkansasan - has been a sports anchor with KATV here in Little Rock and the “Voice of the Razorbacks” since 1978. Paul is known for his signature call of “Touchdown Arkansas” and his love of the Razorbacks.

I’ve always heard that Paul was one of the nicest people you would ever meet, and that there was nothing phony about him. He was always himself. I’ve been listening to local radio all morning and hearing so many share stories of their experience with Paul - those who knew him, those who worked with him, those who had the opportunity to meet him and those who were touched by him in some way. Many of the callers have spoken as well of his faith and love for the Lord as well.

I’ve never been a huge Razorback fan, despite having been born and raised here, but I’ve always thought a lot of Paul. You feel like you know someone from watching them on television for so many years, and the things people are saying about him today - using words like genuine, kind, humble, class - came across well all of those years.

I would have liked to have met him personally. I only saw him in person once - a number of years ago at a local Kroger, shopping for groceries with his wife. I never considered approaching him and meeting him, because I didn’t want to bother him. But, according to what I’ve heard, he probably wouldn’t have been bothered at all. Perhaps I should have taken that chance.

Paul was probably as recognizable as any public figure there is in this state. Razorback sports this season won’t be the same without him. He will be missed greatly in the state of Arkansas - as is more and more evident as the day goes on and the stories of Paul continue to be told. My prayers are with his family as well as those of the other driver.