HANCEVILLE, Ala. — Hanceville Mayor Paul Campbell has resigned from office, effective immediately, citing the ongoing impact of personal loss and the demands facing the City as reasons for his decision.
In a letter released Tuesday, Campbell said the sudden death of his wife, Kyla, earlier this year and the stress associated with the responsibilities of the office led him to conclude he could no longer serve the community in the way it deserves. He described the decision as difficult and acknowledged it may come as a surprise to residents.
Campbell was elected mayor in August 2025, defeating Christopher Johnson and former Hanceville Police Chief Robert Eugene “Bob” Long. He took office with the stated goal of addressing challenges facing the city and guiding Hanceville forward through a period of heightened public attention.
On Tuesday, Campbell shared the following letter with the Hanceville community:
Dear Hanceville Community,
Please accept this letter as my official notice of resignation as Mayor of the City of Hanceville, effective immediately. This has been an incredibly difficult decision, and I understand that it may come as a surprise. I ask for a moment to explain my decision fully.
When I sought election to this office, I did so with a sincere desire to make our city a better place. I believed I could help address the issues that have brought significant attention and challenge to Hanceville. I knew the work would take time and demand much of me, and I believed I was prepared for that responsibility.
As many of you know, my wife, Kyla, passed away suddenly in April. Her death was a profound shock and a devastating loss. At the time, I believed that staying busy and serving our community would help me process my grief. However, I have come to realize that this belief was mistaken.
The unique and demanding circumstances facing our city have created a level of stress far greater than I anticipated, and that stress has made navigating my grief increasingly difficult. My faith and personal values compel me to be honest and transparent with you. While my desire to see Hanceville succeed remains strong, I recognize that, given my personal circumstances, I am not able to serve this community in the way you deserve.
Our city faces complex challenges that will require difficult decisions, sustained focus, and significant emotional resilience. For those who have experienced the unexpected loss of a spouse, you understand that grief often takes far longer to process than one anticipates. I am still in the early stages of that journey.
I am truly sorry that I am unable to continue serving you as Mayor. My hope is that by coming forward now with honesty and clarity, you will understand that this decision was made with the best interests of both my family and our city at heart.
I sincerely covet your thoughts and prayers during this time, and I wish nothing but continued growth, strength, and success for the City of Hanceville.
With respect and gratitude,
Paul Campbell
Campbell concluded his letter by asking for the community’s prayers and expressing his hope for Hanceville’s continued growth and success.
As of Tuesday, City officials had not released additional information regarding succession or next steps following Campbell’s resignation.
