Paul Joseph Trainor, Jr.

It is with heavy hearts and profound love, that we announce the passing of Paul J. “P.J.” Trainor Jr., 51, of Dunkirk, Maryland, on December 17, 2024.

P.J. was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, friend, and a respected member of the law enforcement community, leaving behind a legacy of courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to public safety for 28 years. 

P.J. was born June 2, 1973, in Washington D.C. and was raised in Forestville, Maryland. He attended Mt. Calvary Catholic School and Bishop McNamara High School, where he wrestled on the high school varsity team for four years (ranked #1 in his weight class senior year) and made many lasting friendships. He attended Prince George's Community College before joining the Prince George’s County Police Academy in 1996. After graduation, he started in the Patrol Division working his way to the Special Operations Division (SOD) Tactical Unit. He then went on to his dream job with the SOD Emergency Services Team, where he served for more than 10 years. He earned numerous training certifications and commendations during his 23 year career with PGPD before retiring at the rank of Corporal. P.J. served with the Prince George’s County Sheriff’s Office for the past five years, most recently in the Special Operations & Training Division. In this role, he helped mentor and train fellow officers with his vast experience. There was a specific incident in May of 2022, when he demonstrated extraordinary courage and heroism during an active shooter incident. While many would have been paralyzed by fear, Cpl. Trainor’s actions were swift and decisive, risking his own life to save others. His bravery, in the face of danger, earned him the Bronze Medal of Valor in 2023—a prestigious honor that recognized his exceptional heroism during the crisis. His influence and guidance will continue to be instrumental in shaping the next generation of law enforcement officers, and his impact will be felt for years to come. P.J. was brave, selfless, and committed to protecting others, even at great personal risk. His colleagues and those who worked with him will remember his calm demeanor under pressure, his unwavering professionalism, and his profound sense of duty.

P.J. lived life with confidence, compassion, and an adventurous spirit. His love for the water started at a young age, spending most summer weekends on the boat with his family and cousins (driving as early as age 6!) He enjoyed crabbing, fishing, and water skiing. When it came to boats, PJs favorite speed was fast. He was a daredevil in his youth who loved riding his bike and skateboarding, and doing tricks on the half pipe that he and his dad built in their backyard. Boating was a passion that continued into adulthood. He was a phenomenal captain on the water. When on his boat, you could be sure that you were with a safe captain, having the time of your life, and in a pristine environment. Those who knew P.J. best knew that his prized possessions- boat, car, bikes- needed to be immaculate at all times. He took pride in the things he worked so hard to earn.

P.J. was a terrific listener who gave sound advice and the best hugs. P.J. had a way of making everyone feel like they mattered, and went out of his way for a good and genuine conversation. He was a pillar of strength throughout the heartbreaking losses his family has endured over these last few years, and an endless source of fun in times of celebration. His dry humor could make your stomach hurt from laughing and his ability to replicate voices was second to none. P.J.’s love of fun and adventure made him an absolute blast to hang out with. P.J. lived life according to his own clock, lovingly referred to as “P.J. Time”. He lived in the moment, and would take time for that extra conversation with the random person he met along the way, even if it meant being late. Being present was important to him. 

While P.J. felt a great sense of duty towards protecting others, nothing was more important than family. His wife, Lauren, daughters Alyssa and Caylee, and son Braylon were his purpose in life. P.J. and Lauren met in 2004 and were two wild souls that fell in love quickly. It was their shared love of adventure that created the foundation for the beautiful family to come. He and Lauren welcomed Alyssa, Braylon, and Caylee, and they were the center of his world. P.J. was so proud of his children, and supported them passionately. “Uncle P” was just as present to his nieces and nephews. He brought excitement and energy to family gatherings and always came up with fun and crazy challenges. His competitive nature and sense of adventure made him an easy favorite. 

P.J. touched the lives of countless individuals, all of whom will remember him for his kindness, dedication, and the quiet strength he displayed both in his career and in his everyday life. He will be missed beyond measure.

PJ is survived by wife, Lauren and children: Alyssa, Braylon, and Caylee. He is also survived by Father, Paul J. Trainor Sr., siblings Tish (Patrick) Musselman, Lisa (Robert) Kost, in-laws Terry and Glenn Highsmith, Steven (Janice), Judy (Chris) and nephews and nieces, Erin, Kyle (Clare), Jake, Jamie, Lindsay, Ciara, Ryan, Nicholas and Anthony.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Patricia Trainor; sister Laurie Brown and brother-In-law, Scott Brown. 

In lieu of flowers you can donate to Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) https://www.concernsofpolicesurvivors.org

Funeral services for Cpl. Paul Trainor:

- Visitation:

Saturday, December 28, 2024

11am-1pm, 3-5pm

Beall Funeral Home

6512 Crain Hwy

Bowie, MD 20715

- Funeral:

Monday, December 30, 2024 at 10am

Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic Church

1601 W Mount Harmony Rd

Owings, MD 20736