(Known For Her Compassion & Love For Dogs)
It is with heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of Paula Burkholder who fought a courageous battle against dementia.
Her spirit, marked by kindness, compassion and unwavering faith, remained steadfast. We find comfort knowing her mind and body are finally free and she is experiencing the joys of heaven alongside her husband, Neal.
She was born September 13, 1947, one of seven children to the late William and Helen Allen Bradley. Paula graduated in 1965 from Westminster High School in Westminster, California, where she found a love for the beach and surfing.
Paula married the love of her life, Neal, in 1983. Their love story was a testament to the power of commitment and unwavering support. Paula was loved by all whom had the privilege to know her.
She treated others as she wanted to be treated- always putting their needs above her own. She loved the Lord and served Him well.
Paula retired from Worthington Industries before going on to work for Pioneer Hy-Bred and Delaware Grace Church, as an admin assistant.
Paula was well-known for her compassion and boundless love for dogs. She was dedicated to advocating for and rescuing countless canines. She was the founder and president of “Shar-Pei Savers,” fostering and finding homes for hundreds of dogs in need. Her dedication to the welfare of dogs touched the lives of many people in the community.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Neal Burkholder; and her siblings, Scott Bradley, Barbara Durham, William Durham, Karen Daniels and Denise Walsh.
Her surviving legacy includes her son, Scott (Michelle) Carter of Marysville; her daughter, Jami (Michael) Gregory of Marysville; her grandchildren, Patrick, Vanessa and Laurel Carter and Brady (Elizabeth) Gregory and Trent, Megan and Molly Gregory; her great-grandchildren, Kinsley and Caden Gregory; a sister, Marti (Doug) Auslander; a sister-in-law, Rise (Ed) Grime; a brother-in-law, Tony (Linda) Burkholder; and many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends, including Danny Lettner.
A Celebration of Life memorial service will be held 12 noon, Saturday, December 14, 2024 at Delaware Grace Church, 375 Hills Miller Road, Delaware, Ohio.
Memorial contributions may be made in Paula’s memory to Grace Clinic, 40 South Franklin Street, Delaware, Ohio 43015 or to a humane society of choice.
Underwood Funeral Home in Marysville is assisting the family. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.underwoodfuneralhome.com.
