SWANSEA - Paula Louise Bell, 52, of Swansea passed away Monday, Oct. 6, 2025. Born on Sept. 22, 1973, Paula lived a life filled with purpose, laughter and love.
A proud alumna of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Paula earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees before going on to serve others through a remarkable career with the Army Corps of Engineers and as a recruiter for SIU's engineering program.
Since joining the Corps in 2001, she devoted herself to helping others grow - nurturing young minds and guiding future engineers toward their dreams.
Paula will be remembered for her quick wit, kind heart and boundless curiosity. She was passionate about learning and loved everything from Marvel and DC movies to horror films and comic books. Her Funko Pop collection reflected her vibrant personality, and her enthusiasm for shopping and traveling was matched only by her gift for making others smile.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Henry and Eunice, and is survived by her devoted siblings Wilson, Brian (Camille), and Carol; her cherished nieces Whitney, Britney, Morgan, Serena and Kendall; and her adored great-nieces and nephew Brycen, Bria and Bralyn. Paula's warmth, humor, and spirit will live on in each of them - and in all who were lucky enough to know her.
Please join us in celebrating Paula's beautiful life on Saturday, Oct. 25. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m, followed by a Celebration of Life and a joyful gathering from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Wagon Wheel Event Center, 16279 Lockeyville Road, De Soto. This will be an evening of love, laughter, and happy memories - just the way Paula would have wanted it.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Easter Seals, Shriners Hospitals for Children, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Paula's memory. Her light, laughter and legacy will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Jackson Funeral Home of Carbondale is in charge of arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Jackson Funeral Home.
5 Entries
Cindy Wood
Earlier today
Paula was the best coworker at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. She would help with any questions. She was always smiling and a joy to work with. She helped me with my resume as I moved to Program Analyst position. We will miss her positive attitude dearly.
Jacqueline Armstrong
October 20, 2025
My sincere condolences to the entire Bell family, May you find comfort in your memories of your loved one,
Chelsea Clover
October 20, 2025
Your Light here on Earth shown so Bright! I am so thankful for every interaction we shared! Your mentorship was greatly appreciated and will be forever missed! I know you are now renewed and rejoicing above- cracking a joke every chance you get! Love ya dearly! Sending Prayers for God's strength and comfort to be with the family as they process such loss.
Carol Bell
October 19, 2025
I love you. I will miss you until I see you again.
Angela (Compton) Grimmer
October 19, 2025
Growing up with Paula had a huge impact on my life. She was a dear friend and amazing person. We always enjoyed sharing the titles of books we had recently read. We were partners in having the longest reading lists over the summer in high school. I will miss her dearly at our reunions and will always have nothing but positive memories of the wonderful person Paula was. My condolences to her family and friends during this sad time
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