Paula A. Byers' Obituary
Paula Allene Byers, affectionately known as “Grandma in a Coma,” passed away peacefully on September 8, 2024. Born on June 8, 1942, to Paul and Estella Beekman, Paula was the second of four children. She grew up in a loving family that instilled in her the values of compassion and kindness, which she carried throughout her life.
Paula earned her associate's degree from Steilacoom Community College and dedicated her career to nurturing young minds as a paraeducator at Franklin Pierce School District. She lived in several places throughout her life including Tacoma, Phoenix, Nashville, Spanaway, Lakewood and DuPont.
Known for her boundless compassion, Paula adopted many into her heart and home, never standing by while others were uncared for or abused. Her genuine care for others and her ability to make friends everywhere she went were hallmarks of her character. Paula’s life was a testament to her unwavering faith in Christ, and she found her greatest joy in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
She loved going to the ocean and always enjoyed trying her luck at the slot machines. Her favorite sayings, “Bullsh*t” and “If You Know, You Know,” attest to her feisty and fun-loving spirit and will forever bring a smile to those who knew her.
Her loving family will continue to cherish her memory and the legacy of love she left behind. Her spirit of caring and her unwavering faith will live on in the lives of those she touched.
Paula is survived by her children, Jeffery Weathers, Rebecca (Scott) Rushing, Edward Lunschen; brother, Calvin (Brandy) Beekman; grandchildren Scott (Beth) Rushing, Jr., William (Shannon) Rushing, Sara (Mark) Freie, Chris Weathers, Zach McCollum, Asher Lunschen; ten great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her foster son, Chris McCollum.
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