Paul Hagist Jr., age 91, of Brighton, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Parkview Home in Wayland, Iowa.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Hillcrest Cemetery in Brighton, with Reverend Rick Zickefoose officiating. Visitation will take place from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at the Jones & Eden Funeral Home. Memorials have been established for Hospice Compassus and Friends of Lake Darling. Online condolences may be sent for Paul’s family at www.jonesfh.com.

Paul was born on December 30, 1934, in Kinross, Iowa, the son of Paul and Laurene (Wagamon) Hagist. He attended school in Brighton, graduating from Brighton High School in 1953. Paul married Janet Renoux, and while they later went their separate ways, they remained lifelong friends.

Paul worked for Doc and Jack Scheeler before beginning his career with Mullikin Fertilizer in 1963. He later became a part-owner of Kent Feed and Brighton Ag. Throughout the years, as the businesses transitioned through various ownership changes, Paul remained a steady and trusted presence for his customers. He concluded his career in sales and customer relations with Nutrien Ag Solutions of Fairfield, retiring in November 2025. His work in agriculture was more than a profession — it was a lifelong passion and a steadfast commitment to the farming community he cared so deeply about.

Paul was known for his generous spirit and quick wit. He never missed a chance to tell a joke, share a laugh, or surprise someone with a thoughtful gift. Being named Grand Marshal of the Whoopee Days Parade was a proud moment, reflecting the deep respect his community had for him. He could often be found at local events across the counties, quietly supporting organizations and cheering others on. Giving wasn’t something he did occasionally — it was simply who he was. Gifting was his love language.

Outside of work, Paul enjoyed hunting, fishing, going on drives to check fields, and attending dirt track late model races. He was an avid sports fan and loved watching games on television, never missing a Hawkeye game. In his earlier years, he played fast pitch softball. Paul was a true dog lover and will be deeply missed by his faithful companion, Harley.

Paul is survived by his children: son, Donald Hagist of Brighton, Iowa; son, Robert Hagist (fiancée Lisa) of Brighton, Iowa; son, Walter (Nancy) Hagist of Searsboro, Iowa; and daughter, Jackie (Richard) Williams of Wellman, Iowa; nine grandchildren: April Hagist, Tyler (Dallas) Hagist, Bobbi (Ben) Miller, Heather (Ryan) Robbins, Amanda Greiner, Ashley (Noah) Bolduc, Richard (Emily) Williams, and Rachelle (Juan Gonzalez) Williams, Dawn (Paul) Hammock, Jesse Hicks; 13 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Helen (Walt) Schneider of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa; and special friends, Carolyn and Dan Schlicher of Brighton, Iowa.

He leaves behind many memories that his children and grandchildren will carry with them.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Shawna Hicks; and one great-granddaughter, Aubrey Robbins.