DEFIANCE, OH – Paula Anita Knowles, age 52, of Defiance, died suddenly on November 3, 2023. She is the daughter of Paul and Irma, born on February 25, 1971, in Toledo, OH. Paula was a proud 1989 graduate of Devaux High School in Toledo, OH and worked as a STNA. Paula loved all things “girly”, especially fashion and cosmetics. She was an amazing hairstylist and took pride in helping others look and feel their best. She also loved children. Paula believed that giving more to children would make the world a better place. Leaving your kids with Paula meant they would have happy hearts, big smiles, and a full stomach! They would also play until they passed out! Family and friends will remember her as a vibrant soul whose laughter was infectious. She never met a stranger and could hold a conversation with anyone! Her selfless, non-judgmental, and charitable ways are something we should all aspire to emulate.

Paula leaves behind her mother, Irma; children, DwiShawn (Anjelica), Markiese, and Tierra; siblings, Atira (Dior), George, Rongela, Rozina (Brandon); grandson, Amare; granddaughters, T’Asia and Avyonna; nieces, Deondra “Red” and Aaliyah “Doodles”; Godchildren, Cierra, Latosha, Giovanni; special cousin, Terrance, and close friends, Pam, Nita, and Trina. She also has a host of friends and family not listed above that she shared special bonds with.

She is preceded in death by her grandparents, Rev. Grover and Geraldine Hunt, Benny and Lula Huckleby; father, Paul Huckleby; sister, Pauline; brother, George Gregory Jamerson; Godchildren, Marcus and Kierra; aunts, Crystal Hunt and Gwendolyn Haynes, and uncles, Billy Haynes and Grover Hunt Jr. Coming from a large family, there are many dearly loved family members not listed that preceded her in death.

Visitation will be held at 11:00 a.m. on November 17, 2023, at Believers Church International, 1600 Ayersville Ave., Defiance, OH 43512. A memorial service will follow at 12:00 p.m. at the church with Apostle O’ Michael Smith officiating. Flowers may be delivered to the church on November 17, 2023, between 10:00 and 10:30 a.m. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the church or to Atira Casey at 419-787-5260, in honor of Paula. For additional information and to view Paula’s online obituary, please visit www.churchfuneralsdirect.com.


Share on Facebook