October 4, 2021, 77, La Grange –
Paula Jones Garris transitioned from her earthen vessel into her heavenly home on October 4, 2021. Paula was born in Lenoir County to the late Paul Jones and Irene Davis Nunn on February 25, 1944.
Family came first in Paula’s life and she was most proud to be called “mama”. Paula and Johnna’s relationship extended beyond mother and daughter, with the two becoming best friends as the years passed by. There was nothing one wouldn’t do for the other and they were truly inseparable. The little things shared between them were the most special, such as settling in each evening to watch episodes of The Young And The Restless and The Bold And The Beautiful.
Paula was a selfless lady, always looking for ways to help others. She supported the La Grange Rotary Club and Lenoir County Junior Miss Program. With over 32 years of service with Lenoir County Public Schools, 23 years being spent as cafeteria manager at La Grange Elementary, Paula had well-served her community. With Paula, you knew that if she loved you, she REALLY loved you. And if she didn’t, you knew that, too. She was easy to talk to, but never afraid to share her opinion.
Time at the river was Paula’s opportunity to slow down and rest. She would sit in the yard with the sounds of nature, the sunshine, and her thoughts. In her quiet time, Paula enjoyed working word puzzles, scrolling Facebook, a game of solitaire, or reading a good Nicholas Sparks book. Paula was an avid UNC Tar Heels fan and wasn’t ashamed to let you know it. She also supported her “Davis girls” by attending their softball and volleyball games.
Anyone who ate at Paula’s table knew she was a cook like none other. She would still roll out her pastry and made a one-of-a-kind pimento cheese. The desserts from her oven were all outstanding, especially her strawberry cake and old-timey lemon pound cake. Friends and family looked forward to the holidays when Paula and Johnna would hand-deliver their homemade Christmas candy. Paula will be remembered by those closest to her when they hear the songs of Elvis Presley or Conway Twitty and each time Dirty Dancing is playing on television.
A service to honor and remember Paula’s life will be held by the graveside at Fairview Cemetery on Saturday, October 9, 2021 at 11 a.m. Friends will be greeted immediately following the service.
Paula is survived by her best friend and daughter, Johnna Garris; step-sister, Carol Sugg; and sister-in-law, Mary Nunn. In addition to her parents, Paula was preceded in death by her step-brother, Bob Nunn, and former husband, John Garris.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Paula’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
