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Former 'All My Children' Actor Paul Avery and Wife Sheila Die in New Jersey House Fire
Paul Avery, a former 'All My Children' actor, and his wife Sheila died in a house fire in Blairstown, New Jersey, on June 16, 2026. Firefighters rescued the couple before 1 a.m., but both died shortly after. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Quick Facts
Who
Paul Avery
What
died in a house fire
When
June 16, 2026 early morning
Where
Blairstown, New Jersey
- died in a house fire
- rescued by firefighters
- confirmed deaths by daughter on Facebook
- cause under investigation
- Paul Avery
Paul Avery, a former actor on the soap opera "All My Children," and his wife, Sheila Avery, died early Tuesday morning after a fire engulfed their home in Blairstown, New Jersey. Firefighters arrived at the residence before 1 a.m. on June 16, 2026, and rescued the couple, who were found in critical condition. They succumbed to their injuries shortly after being pulled from the flames.
Avery, who was a U.S. National Guard veteran and served as a helicopter crew chief during the Vietnam War, was also a skilled skydiver and motorcyclist. After leaving acting, he founded the online newspaper Ridge View Echo, where he served as executive editor. In a 2023 profile, he reflected on small-town life, stating, "The great thing about living in a small town is that you can actively participate in it."
Avery is remembered by friends and family for a life filled with diverse accomplishments. Joe Phalon, a writer at Ridge View Echo, described him as "the most interesting man in the world" and noted his roles as an actor, skydiver, Vietnam veteran, and newspaper founder. Phalon added that Avery's passing "will leave a real void in this community" not only in Blairstown but also in surrounding towns.
Their daughter, Kyle Avery, confirmed the news in a Facebook post, writing: "I'm devastated to share that our parents, Paul and Sheila Garry Avery, passed away early this morning. We loved them so much, and they loved us so much, and nobody ever had to wonder if that was so." She also expressed gratitude to the Blairstown Fire Department. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Topics
Why This Matters
This tragic incident highlights the unpredictable dangers of residential fires, even in small communities. For readers in similar suburban or rural settings, it underscores the importance of functional smoke detectors, a practiced escape plan, and awareness that emergency response times can vary. The quick but ultimately unsuccessful rescue also raises questions about fire safety preparedness and the emotional toll on first responders.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 16, 2026
WireHouse fire engulfs Paul and Sheila Avery's home in Blairstown, New Jersey
Jun 16, 2026
WireFirefighters arrive and rescue the couple before 1 a.m.
Jun 16, 2026
WirePaul and Sheila Avery die from injuries sustained in the fire
Jun 16, 2026
WireDaughter Kyle Avery confirms deaths in a Facebook post