Paula Jean Anderson, age 76, passed on to her eternal home on December 25, 2024, at her residence in Oklahoma City. She was born on June 5, 1948, in Iola, Kansas.

Paula was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Kathleen Sodowsky; sister, Linda Stamp; and daughter, Traci Ayers.

Paula is survived by her loving husband of 40 years, Don Anderson; daughter, Amy Shirola (husband Andrew); son-in-law, Rob Ayers; bonus son, Matt Anderson (wife Joanna); and bonus son, Chris Anderson. She also leaves a legacy of 12 grandchildren, Alton Ayers (25), Alayna Ayers (23), Avery Ayers (18), Aubin Ayers (16), Carson Shirola (22), Neely Shirola (19), Karly Shirola (17), Sloan Anderson (21), Jack Anderson (19), Easton Anderson (15), Elle Anderson (13), and Elin Anderson (10).

Paula graduated from Southeast High School in Kansas City in 1966, and went on to get her Bachelor's Degree in Education from Bethany Nazarene College (now Southern Nazarene University). She received her Master's Degree in Early Education from SNU in 1983. She had a rewarding career as a kindergarten teacher for 20 years, starting in the Oklahoma City Public School District and ending her career as a Reading Specialist for 9 years in the Mustang Public School District. She was loved and revered by her students and fellow teachers alike.

In retirement, Paula enjoyed traveling, working in her beautiful flower beds, and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

A memorial service to celebrate Paula's life will be held on Monday, January 6, 10:00am, at Bethany First Church of the Nazarene. The service will be livestreamed and may be viewed on on this obituary page.