WFLA honors the life of chief photojournalist Paul Lamison with a plaque
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – The WFLA News Channel 8 team has had the privilege of honoring and forever remembering the life of beloved chief photojournalist Paul Lamison, along with his family and close friends.
While it hasn’t even been a year since Paul physically left the WFLA newsroom, not a day goes by that his former colleagues haven’t felt his presence in the day-to-day breaking news.
In August 2022, WFLA unexpectedly lost one of our teammates. Paul suffered a heart attack and tragically passed away at the age of 57. He left behind a wife, daughters and several siblings.
But on Wednesday, News Channel 8 invited Paul’s wife, Nerissa, their daughters and extended family from California to the emotional unveiling of a plaque honoring Paul and his ministry in the Tampa Bay area.
The plaque now sits near the entrance of the photographer’s office and welcomes everyone to the newsroom, just as Paul did every day.
Paul worked for News Channel 8 for nearly 30 years. He began his journey with WFLA on May 26, 1993. WFLA presenter Jennifer Leigh said, “While viewers saw Paul on camera, we got to see him behind the scenes mastered the craft of storytelling—shooting, editing, and documenting the events.” That’s what matters most to you.”
Paul loved the community he oversaw. Raised in Lakeland, one of seven siblings, he “never lost sight of those roots.” Leigh said Paul was “keen to tell great stories that touch real people,” which is still true.
Before Nerissa and Paul’s family arrived, Host Deanne King asked viewers on Facebook to comment on her fondest memories of Paul.
Many viewers shared that one of their fondest memories was of Paul throwing the first pitch at a Tampa Bay Rays game, and of course it was a strike. Paul’s daughter Ava will continue her father’s legacy when she leaves the court at the Rays game on Thursday.
“I just miss his attitude and how happy he always was,” wrote one Facebook user.
Another user shared, “His wonderful/awful DAD jokes. Miss him. ❤”
“His smile and enthusiasm! We miss him!” another viewer commented.
Most of the comments were about his infectious smile – a smile that will now forever have a special place on WFLA News Channel 8.
