Paula Winter
September 1, 1957 - August 16, 2024
Obituary from Dignity Memorial
She was born on September 1, 1957, in Kansas City, Missouri, and spent her life in PrairieVillage and Overland Park, Kansas.
Paula is survived by her devoted husband, Donald R. Yoakum, and her two cherisheddaughters, Ashley Hunt (Brent Betz) and their children, Olivia and Luke of Prairie Village,Kansas, and Lindsey Hales (Chris) and their children, Benjamin and Savannah. She waspreceded in death by her parents, Norman and Phyllis Winter, and her dear cousin, DianaBolten (who was like a sister).
A lifelong lover of music and dance, Paula spent many joyous years dancing at Miss Nina’sOverland Dance School, where she also taught classes as she grew older. She graduatedfrom Kansas State University with a degree in education but chose to follow in her father'sfootsteps, embarking on a successful career in banking. Paula retired in September 2023 just a few months shy of 45 dedicated years at Metcalf Bank (now Central Bank of theMidwest).
Paula had a heart for volunteerism and giving back to her community. She activelyparticipated in various social organizations, most recently dedicating her time to theKappa Kappa Gamma Alumnae Association, PEO, the SMW Class of 75 ReunionCommittee, and serving as the Bell Choir Director at Shawnee United Methodist Church.
Paula loved her daughters fi ercely and dedicating countless hours during their formativeyears to leading and volunteering in their various activities. She cherished her roles as aGirl Scout Leader, KCFC Cheer Coach and Area Director, Sunday school teacher, and choirchaperone. Paula strived to create a warm and inviting home, always welcoming the girls’friends to join in their adventures. Always quick with a laugh and a smile, shewholeheartedly supported her daughters and their friends in everything they pursued.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to The University of Kansas Hospital andKansas City Hospice House for the exceptional care and compassion they provided toPaula in her fi nal months and days.
Paula will be deeply missed by all who knew her, remembered for her warmth, boundlessgenerosity, and an unwavering passion for life.
A Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 20, 6-8pm at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home (10507 Holmes Road, KCMO 64131). Funeral service will occur on
DONATIONS - University of Kansas Cancer Center, Richard and Annette Bloch Cancer Care Pavilion, 2650 Shawnee Mission Pkwy., Westwood, Kansas 66205
Past Services, TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2024
Visitation WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 21, 2024
Funeral Service:
Wednesday, August 21, at 11:00am at Mt. Moriah followed by a committal service inMount Moriah Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the University of Kansas Cancer Center in hermemory.
Rest in peace, Paula. Your spirit will live on in the hearts of those you touched