Paula Carol Steele

In Loving Memory

Paula Sylvester Steele, 67, a lifelong resident of Crestview, Florida, was called home to the Lord on the 20th of June, 2024. Born into the family of the late Alice and Cotton Sylvester in Lucedale, Mississippi, she carried forth the values of love, dedication, and service throughout her life. Paula was a graduate of Crestview High School and a member of the Big Red Machine Marching Band playing clarinet. After high school, Paula graduated college with a degree in nursing. She demonstrated remarkable perseverance, surmounting the challenges of Algebra to achieve her commendable goal of nursing-a testament to her unwavering commitment to care for others.

Paula's vocational journey later mirrored that of her father's, as she skillfully served as an electronics technician within the aviation industry, a role in which she excelled and took great pride.

Later, as a homemaker, Paula focused on her innate ability to cook the southern dishes of her childhood. She was a testament to her Mississippi roots with her ability to cook for her family and friends. She loved to spend her spare time enjoying nature, time with her pet dogs, and shopping.

The heart of her family, Paula's memory will be eternally treasured by her daughter, April Heringer, son-in-law, Lawrence Heringer, and ex- husband Marvin. Her role as a grandmother to Lorelai, Asline, Kassi, Scott, Larry, Janiece, and Jayden was embraced with immense love and devotion, a sentiment she extended as a great-grandmother to Nicholas, Isabella, Alyssa, and Cody. Paula leaves behind her sister Sandy with whom she shared many of life's ups and down's. Also, Paula will leave behind her "Bonus" sister Debbie who was only found a few years ago but brought her immense happiness. In her final months, her life was beautifully complemented by the affection and support of her devoted fiancé, Charles May.

Preceding her in passing are her beloved parents, brother James, sister Sharon, cousin Ricky, and her cherished husband, Ben.

A graveside service, honoring the life and spirit of Paula Sylvester Steele, will be held in a private ceremony on July 20, 2024, which poignantly coincides with the date she was to be wed.