Paula Edith Locke, our beloved Mom, Grandma, and Great Grandma, concluded her earthly journey at the age of 95, after nearly 96 years of a life filled with love, faith, and music.
Born on January 3, 1930, in Cleveland, Ohio, Paula lived her life quietly but fully, pouring herself into her family and her faith. She is remembered for her love of gardening and an impressive green thumb as well as the most delicious Scandinavian Cinnamon Rolls and Pies! She loved making a joyful noise and sang in church choirs throughout her life. Those closest to her will always remember her beautiful solos of “The Lord’s Prayer” and “O Holy Night,” sung with sincerity and devotion.
Mom was the heart of our family — steady, loving, and always there with the most generous heart. She was deeply proud of her 6 children, cherished her 11 grandchildren and 2 step-grandchildren, and delighted in her 17 great-grandchildren. Her faith guided her life and brought her peace. We take comfort knowing she is now rejoicing in Heaven reunited with loved ones, including her beloved husband and father of her children, Don, and their son, Don Jr., and Gene, her second husband.
She is lovingly survived by her children Gloria, Gail, Dan, Gwen, and Paula, and by the many family members and friends whose lives were better because of her love.
A memorial service will be held in the Chapel at The Avalon of Lewis Center on Saturday, January 3, 2026, what would have been Mom’s 96th birthday, at 2:00 P.M. — a fitting day to celebrate the life she lived so well.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or to your local humane society, in her memory.
We will miss her voice, we will miss her presence, and we will miss her unwavering love more than words can say — she left each of us a lasting legacy to carry forward.
We love you forever, Mom.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

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