Paula Wright Beasley

Paula Sue Wright Beasley 

December 19, 1939 – April 13, 2025

Paula Sue Wright Beasley, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Palm Sunday, April 13, 2025, at the age of 85 in Gulfport, Mississippi. Her passing during the season of Lent, a time of renewal, reflects the grace and strength with which she lived her life.

Born in Fort Smith, Arkansas, on December 19, 1939 to Paul and Mamie Wright, Paula’s life was defined by her love for family, community, and friendship. She was the devoted wife of the late Charles O. Beasley, whom she married in June of 1961 after meeting him while he was stationed at Fort Chaffee with the U.S. Army. Together, they raised a family with love and dedication.

Paula was a proud and active member of her community. She served as a past president of the Bayou Bluff Tennis Club and was a competitive tennis player for many years. She was also a devoted member of the Ladies Auxiliary at the Gulfport Yacht Club and held a lifetime membership with the Junior Auxiliary of Gulfport and Meridian. Paula was also a Maid of the Les Cavaliers Mardi Gras Krewe.

Paula was an active member of the Koinonia Bible Study Group at Trinity Methodist Church, where she shared her faith and love for others. An avid bridge player for much of her life, Paula cherished the friendships made at the card table and beyond. She also had a deep commitment to service, having served as a Scout Leader in Meridian and having chaired Junior Auxiliary’s Reading is Fundamental program where she impacted many young lives.

Known for her gracious hospitality, Paula was a welcoming host in her beautifully, seasonally decorated home. Whether hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying time with family and friends, Paula’s home was always filled with love and joy.

A woman of style and flair with a beaming personality, Paula was known for her infectious laugh and a heart that welcomed anyone who crossed her path. She had a green thumb and delighted in tending to her plants and flowers, finding joy in their growth and beauty. Her home was always open to her six grandchildren and their neighborhood friends, all who affectionately called her Grammy.

Paula’s life was marked by her outgoing nature and her passion for hosting, socializing, and carrying on lively conversations. Whether at home surrounded by family or in the community, she was always at the center of the action, spreading warmth and joy wherever she went.

Paula was preceded in death by her parents, Paul Kenneth Wright and Mamie Futral Wright; husband, Charles O. Beasley; her daughters, Reja Beasley Klug and Carla Beasley Drummond; her brother, Kenneth Wright; and her sister, Mildred Burton Albert.

She is survived by her daughter, Allison Hawkins (Rick); her son, Charlie Beasley; her son-in-law, Russ Klug; and her six grandchildren: Kerianne Klug, Ryan Klug, Charlie Beasley, Jr., Griffin Beasley, Baker Beasley, and Sara Ethan Beasley. Paula is also survived by her brother, Ron Dee Wright (Katie), two bonus grandchildren, Hugh Hawkins and Barrow Hawkins, as well as many nieces and nephews. Additionally, Paula is survived by Andrea Sims, her long-time caregiver and dear friend.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 21, 2025, at Trinity Methodist Church, 5007 Lawson Avenue, Gulfport, MS, where friends may visit from 9:00-11:00 am.  Funeral services will follow at 11:00 am.  Burial will be at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens.  A reception will be held at Bayou Bluff Tennis Club following the committal services.  

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is serving the family, and memories may be shared at www.riemannfamily.com .

In honor of Paula’s life and the causes she cared deeply about, the family suggests memorial donations be made to Trinity Methodist Church of Gulfport, the Mississippi Main Street Association Charles O. Beasley Scholarship Fund, or the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center.

Paula was our precious family matriarch, and we will forever miss her presence, her love, and the light she brought into our lives.