Paris F. Wentz

Paris Fontaine Wentz was born on April 8,1956 in Baltimore, Maryland. He was the third child born to the late John Wentz and Gladys Russell. Paris was a very inquisitive child asking a lot of questions…. deep questions. Yes, he always had something to say…which often got him into the hot seat. But he loved his extremely close-knit family, which included 4 brothers and 2 sisters. He often spoke of how much he appreciated how they were taught to love and serve Jehovah together in field service and at the meetings.

As a youngster Paris faced many challenges in school, despite this he did not let this let that stop him from sharing Bible truths with others or trying to help those in need. He would always speak to those who would listen, even on the school bus. He tried so hard to help his peers know about Jehovah, even saving the lives of 2 of them. One whom he talked out of taking his own life, later recognized him at a convention and was happy to let him know he was now his spiritual brother.

Paris loved sports, especially basketball. He was also known for his endless sayings of wisdom, knowledge and spreading the Bible’s lifesaving message. Paris was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on July 7, 1973, along with his sister Chantel and enjoyed serving Jehovah and preaching, even aiding some to baptism. At times he auxiliary pioneered and throughout the years he would often preach in seldom worked territories.

On March 1, 1975, Paris married the love of his life Juanita Goode. They served faithfully together. Paris was a family man, and he did what he had to do, to keep his family afloat. He had many jobs, but you wouldn’t know it because all he ever said when asked what do you do for work was….”I work on Wall Street,” or something like that. What he did for work wasn’t important to him, because he always kept the focus on Jehovah and serving him. But at one point in his life, he had two jobs which he went to at the same time and would often come home so late that his kids would already be asleep. One night his little one said, “Dad, why do you have to work so much?” He said, “Because I have to make money so that you can stay in a home and buy clothes and food.” His son replied, at the age of 4, “I hope you never get rich.” That made Paris reflect on what he was doing, missing time with his family. He immediately quit his jobs to spend more time with his family and help them serve Jehovah.

Paris loved his nieces and nephews and would support their functions. He also loved all little ones and they loved him back!....especially his hair. So, when he picked them up and hugged them…he made sure they didn’t grab his hair. He enjoyed vacations with family and friends, barbecues and eating!! Let’s not forget his love of dancing. He would even be the DJ at affairs or the photographer.

Paris served as an elder in the congregation, which was an assignment he took very seriously, and this was evident to all. He had such a big heart and was always ready to listen and help anyone in need, putting an arm around the shoulder. He took in stray animals as well as people. Paris would become whatever he needed to be. He also enjoyed nature and gazing at the night sky, sometimes till the sun came up.

Paris’ strong faith in the Bible’s promises encouraged everyone during his most difficult times. Even after tragically losing both his sons and again after becoming ill in 2016, which left him without the ability to speak. Yet he still managed to preach while in the nursing home, he always had his well-known smile, even when he wasn’t feeling well. Paris continued to endure until the end as he peacefully went to sleep in death on June 1st, 2026. He will be missed, but not forgotten, especially in Jehovah’s memory.

Paris is survived by…his loving wife and best friend Juanita of 51 years, he is also survived by Donte and Tarice who were raised like his own children, his brothers Harold (Marilyn), Theodore, Guy, Tony (Gloria), his sister Maria (Cephas), Mother-n-law Thelma Goode and a host of nieces, nephews, friends and family. Paris was preceded in death by his sister Chantel Butler, and his sons Paris Wentz Jr. and Davon Wentz.