Paula Jane Kunzeman

Paula Jane Cash Kunzeman was born in Evansville, IN on September 1, 1952. Paula was a daughter, sister, wife, mother and grandmother. Paula grew up in Warrensburg, IL. After marrying her husband Karl in 1972 they settled in Harristown where they had two children. After the birth of their second child, they moved to Findlay and eventually settled in Shelbyville in 1992.

Paula was an active member in the Findlay Women’s Club, Shelbyville Band Boosters, and Holy Cross Lutheran Church. She worked for Ben Franklin for several years before taking a position as a teaching assistant with Pana Schools and eventually Taylorville Schools. She worked in the Title I reading program and preschool where she retired after 19 years of service. She held several other part-time jobs throughout the years as well.

While Paula enjoyed several hobbies (sewing, crafting, and camping among them) one of her bigger passions was cooking for other people. Paula often could be found in her kitchen making meals for those who were sick, experienced hardships, loss of a loved one, birth of a new child, or for those she just loved and wanted to do something nice for. In recent years, Paula used her skill to provide meals for Holy Cross’s Advent by Candlelight dinner and to Lion’s Club for various recognition events, such as the senior Top 10 dinner each year.

Paula lived a vibrant life. She loved her people with all her heart. Paula could often be referred to as a force of nature. When she found a cause she believed in, she would defend it with her whole heart. This was often witnessed with her family, friends, and more recently with Shelby County United. She held a love of music that carried on through her children and her grandchildren: Madisyn, Claire, Izabella, and Tristen.

Paula was a loving mother, grandmother, and a beautiful friend. Paula is survived by her husband, Karl; sister, Phyllis (Gary) Gulledge and Lucinda Beck; son, Andrew; daughter, Amanda; granddaughters, Madisyn, Claire, and Izabella; and grandson, Tristen. In addition to many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Paula was preceded in death by her father, Leonard Cash; mother, Ruby Jackson (Beckner) Cash; and her sister, Jean Brazelton (Chuck).

In keeping with Paula’s wishes, no services will be held at this time. A celebration of life is being planned for October 12, 2025, at the Kunzeman residence. Arrangements are by Howe and Yockey Funeral Home, Shelbyville, IL. Memorials may be given to Holy Cross Lutheran Church and mailed to Howe and Yockey Funeral Home, 415 North Broadway, Shelbyville, IL 62565. Send condolences at www.howeandyockey.com