Paula A. Conklin, 63, of Louisiana, Mo., died Oct. 18, 2024, at the Blessing Hospital in Quincy, Ill. Collier Funeral Home in Louisiana, Mo., is in charge of cremation rites.

She was born on June 19, 1961, in Hannibal, Mo., the daughter of Helen Cox. She was married to Robert Conklin and died earlier. Her mother, Helen Ruiz, and a step-daughter, Rosa Conklin, also died earlier.

She is survived by her daughter, Star Conklin, of Louisiana, Mo., her grandchildren, Shawn Conklin, De’Jay Boyd, Lorenzo Thomas, and Ely’Jah Thomas, and father of grandchildren, Randall Thomas, whom she thought of as a son.

Paula had worked a few jobs over the years but mainly devoted her time to her family. She enjoyed playing spades and would play in card groups with friends and tournaments. She loved spending time with her grandkids and taking them to the park to play. She worked hard to provide for her daughter and family until she was unable to do so because of her health. Her daughter was then able to take care of and provide for her.

Memorials may be made to the family in care of the funeral home. Online condolences can be sent at collierfuneral. com.