Paul Ian Dreyer

Paul Ian Dreyer, age 79, of Newton, died Feb. 17 2026, after brief brave battle with aggressive AML cancer.  Son of the late Reynold and Deborah Ruth Dreyer of Newton. He leaves behind his beloved wife Judy, sister in-law Marge and husband John Nakagawa of Kailua, HI, many close cousins and dear friends.

He graduated from Brown University and obtained a PhD in social psychology from University of Illinois. He was a professor at Bridgewater State University before embarking on a long career at the MA Department of Public Health, rising to the position of Assistant Commissioner.

He had vast intellectual curiosity about the world, with a love of reading, music, fine cuisine, travel, and Welsh terriers.

A private memorial observance will be held for family only.  Donations may be made in his memory at the MGB Cancer Institute Targeted Therapy for Acute Leukemia Fund (GR0218137).

Gifts may be made online at https://giving.massgeneral.org/donate to the Center for Leukemia. Please specify “In memory of Paul Dreyer (GR0218137)”.

Or by mail to: MGH Development Office, Attn: Kasey Ahem, 125 Nashua Street, Suite 540, Boston, MA 02114.  Please make check out to: “MGB Cancer Institute Targeted Therapy for Acute Leukemia Fund” Please specify “In memory of Paul Dreyer (GR0218137)”.