Paula Wright's Obituary
Paula Wright, 65, of St. Louis, MO, passed away on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Mt. Zion Baptist Church in St. Charles, Mo at 11:00 AM.
Paula Ann Wright, age 65, of St. Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. Paula was born on August 23, 1960, at St. Joseph Hospital to Floyd Shelton “Tom” Wright and Roberta Brown.
Paula grew up surrounded by love, laughter, and the strength of family. She was educated in the St. Charles School District, graduating from St. Charles High School. She later pursued studies at Lincoln University and attended St. Charles Beauty Academy, adding to her creative gifts and vibrant personality.
Paula was blessed with a talent and passion for food, working as a culinary specialist and caregiver for many years. She was employed at Fontbonne University, Gerbes (Kroger), Mizzou Fraternity, and Emmaus Homes, where she shared her skills in hospitality and culinary service. She also worked as a Patient Tech at St. Joseph Hospital in St. Charles, demonstrating her compassion and commitment to caring for others.
Baptized at an early age, Paula held a quiet yet steadfast faith. In her early years, she served faithfully in the Culinary Ministry, expressing her love for God and others through her service. Her personality was jovial, strong, pleasant, and caring, and she carried herself with a gentle confidence that touched everyone she met.
She enjoyed living simply, doing things in her own unique way, and finding joy in life’s everyday moments. Paula’s humor and compassion made her unforgettable to her family and friends. Her legacy lives on through the many lessons she shared—especially the art of cooking—and through the love she poured into those around her.
She will be lovingly remembered by her five heartbeats—her children, Jolomi and Meisha (Pharis)—and her cherished grandchildren, Jaiviana, Troy Jr., and Na’amah. Paula also leaves to celebrate her memory her devoted siblings Jerry, Kerry, Joy, John Jr. (Alicia), and Melvin Sr. (JaQuisha), along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Paula was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents, her grandbaby Baby Wright-Zomphier, her stepfather Reverend John McCaleb Sr., her brother-in-law Marcus McDonald, her sister-in-law Denise McCaleb, and three special friends, Bolaji Renwick, Thomas Vaughn, and Burlan Thomas.
In her own way, Paula often expressed her faith through song. One she held close to her heart was “Lord, I Want You to Help Me” from the soundtrack of Tyler Perry’s I Can Do Bad All by Myself. Those lyrics reflected her life’s prayer—her desire for God’s help, guidance, and grace through every season. Though her work on earth is done, the echo of that song remains, reminding us all to lean on the Lord for strength, just as Paula did.
Her love, laughter, and light will continue to shine in our hearts forever.
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