Paula Barnes, beloved daughter of  Billie Jean Williams and the late Henry Lewis, was born in Albany, Georgia, on August 30, 1973.

She was educated in the Dougherty County School System, graduating from Dougherty Comprehensive High School.  Paula was a very perceptive, astute young lady who valued education and took advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow.  She attended Albany State University where she earned both the bachelor's and master's degree in Education.  She later returned to her alma mater and was awarded the specialist degree in Special Needs Education.

Paula dearly loved the Lord, never ceased to give God the glory for her many blessings, and she touched many lives in a very special way.  She brought joy and laughter everywhere she went and poured her heart into her lifelong career as an educator in the Dougherty County School System.  While spending the majority of her years at Magnolia Elementary School in numerous grade levels, Paula used her creative talents and gifts to mold, shape, and inspire young minds; dissect  personalities, skillsets, and strengths; and challenged students in ways that brought out the best in each of them.  She retired in 2012 having rendered years of unparalleled service.

Yes, Paula had many wonderful experiences and joys in her life, but her greatest joy was that of being a loving and devoted mother, confidant, chauffer, counselor, and provider for her four daughters—Deonna, Keonna, Trabia, and Paulina; and grandmother of Kavi and Kaysen who held the key to her heart.  Spending time with family and friends was Paula's delight.  She was nurturing, kindhearted, offered gentle words of wisdom, and stood ready to lend a helping hand—oftentimes putting the needs of those she loved before her own.

Although Paula's earthly journey ended on July 22, 2022, her recipes (sour cream muffins and chess squares), words of encouragement, laughter, and love will live on for many generations to come.

She is survived by her beloved daughters, Deonna Thompson, Keonna Thompson, Travia Broner, and Paulina Mosley-Shingles; grandsons, Kavi Ross and Kaysen Ross; mother, Billie Jean Williams; siblings, Stacy Price, Melva Williams, Sharon Williams, John Williams, Myron Daniels, Latasha Wright, Raynard Batten, and Lydia Rush; stepsisters, Kimberly Oates and Keruschka Williams; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.