A DEATH
HAS OCCURRED
december 10, 1951 – october 4, 2025
Obituary for Paula Ann Elam
Paula Ann Elam, born on December 10, 1951, in Lancaster, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2025, at her home in Cincinnati, Ohio. She leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and dedication that will resonate within the hearts of those who knew her.
Paula was a devoted wife to her beloved husband of 34 years, Keith Elam, and a cherished mother to her daughters, Melissa (John) Pope and Thelma ‘Renee’ (Patrick) Novachich. She was a proud grandmother to her numerous grandchildren: Brandon (Allie), Patrick Jr., Alicia (Koda), Robert N., Kristen (Jeremiah), Robert P., Ellyssa, John, and Aaron, as well as ten great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to her life. She is also survived by her brother, Danny Herrington, and many brother and sister-in-laws, and nieces and nephews.
Paula was preceded in death by her parents, Walter ‘Tom’ and Winona Herrington, parents-in-law, Harry and Dorothy Elam, son, Robert Saylor, and sisters, Linda Herrington, and Juanita Herrington.
For 17 years, Paula served as a Medical Records Administrator at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, where her compassion and attention to detail impacted countless lives. Beyond her professional contributions, Paula possessed a profound love for music and art. She sang beautifully in her church choir and cherished every note of gospel music. Her artistic talents flourished in her ability to draw and craft dolls, which she shared generously with family and friends. Paula had a passion for reading the Bible and praising her Lord, Jesus Christ. She also enjoyed writing stories which showcased her reflective spirit, and her beautiful handwriting was a reflection of her love for the written word. Paula loved purses, so much so that she was called ‘Pursey’ by her husband, Keith.
Paula found joy in the simple pleasures of life-family gatherings, home-cooked meals, and travels with her husband to explore historical homes across America. Her nurturing heart made her not only a mother and grandmother but also a confidante and friend to those around her.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 21st, 2025 from 11:00am-1:00pm at the Arlington Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 2155 Compton Road, Cincinnati, OH 45231 (Follow the BLUE line). A memorial service will follow at 1:00pm at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions in honor of Paula can be made to the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center by visiting https://giving.cincinnatichildrens.org/campaign/650825/donate?c_src=home&c_src2=header.
In this time of reflection, let us carry forward Paula’s spirit of love, creativity, and devotion to family. May her remarkable life inspire us to cherish every moment and to nurture the bonds we share with one another. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Tuesday, October 21st, 2025 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
The Arlington Memorial Gardens Funeral Home
Tuesday, October 21st, 2025 at 1:00 PM
The Arlington Memorial Gardens Funeral Home
“I’m going to miss you aunt Paula. Sorry I didn’t get to see you that much after getting older. Wish I could have been there to say goodbye. I know your in a better place. My mom, Linda and grandma was there waiting for you. You are going to be missed by so many here. Love you.”
10/21/2025
“Mommy I love you more than anything in this world. I miss you so much! Your daily calls to check on me. I just miss you. Your smile that could instantly melt away any sorrow. Your heart was so big and you loved everyone but more than anything us kids, Keith, your grand babies and great grand babies. You truly were an earth angel and we were blessed to have you as long as we did. As long as I love and breathe your memory will be cherished and celebrated until we see you again. I know Bobby and Jesus were there to help you over. Gone from my sight but always in my heart. Please always watch over us and send us messages that your close. I love you and miss you so much. My life will never be the same. -Your forever baby girl.”
10/20/2025
“Sorry, just learned of her wishes to be cremated, never mind about the kiss, Bobby will have to do that for me. But still know, you are on my mind, in my heart and always part of my prayers.”
10/20/2025
“Renee (Thelma), Missy & Keith: I so wish we could be there to join in celebrating the life of such a wonderful soul. She was the Cool Aunt I never had. The world has lost one of the best, but heaven has called home one of it’s own and she is celebrating with all of those who were called before her. I know Bobby was waiting for her with the biggest hug & smile anyone has ever received. She surrounded herself with people just as wonderful as her. We will keep you in our prayers. Please know, I will be thinking of everyone of you tomorrow, someone give her a kiss for me. She was very loved & will be just as missed. We love you all.”
10/20/2025
“Keith, I just heard of Paula’s passing. We are so sorry to hear this news. I know she had some serious health issues for the past few years and you took such great care of her. We will keep you and the rest of your family in our prayers as you navigate through your grief. The love of your life is watching over you from Heaven. Paula was such a sweet and compassionate lady. Love, Hugs and Prayers for you dear Keith. Tina and Dave”
10/12/2025
“So sorry for your loss. Paula was always such a sweet lady. She would always smile when I seen her at church. She loved everyone. Lonnie, Maggie and Elijah”
10/08/2025
“We just saw this on Facebook. Keith, we are so very sorry for your loss. I know she’s had some health issues the past few years, but you’re really never prepared to lose someone. I pray that the Good Lord welcomes her with open arms into His Heavenly Kingdom, and I pray that she is at peace and pain free. May God give you comfort and strength as you navigate this difficult time.”
10/07/2025
“I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of Aunt Paula. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish I could have been able to come to the service but I couldn’t but I am thinking of you all and I’m praying for comfort. I love you. RIH Aunt Paula”
10/07/2025
“Many prayers to you and your family Keith – I know Paula was your rock as you are hers absolutely the testament of a whole marriage- I love you both – your friend, randy”
10/07/2025
“May the Lord Bless & Keep You Keith in this difficult hour What a blessing a wonderful marriage is & what a gift she was in your life We love you so much”
10/07/2025
“May god bless you and be with you – Keith you where strong though all this – by Paul’s side as she had wished – which made me want to be a better man – and I’m very greatful for that – I feel blessed that I had the pleasure to know Paula and her family – because without Paula – I would never have met my wife – who also had been strong though this – you are LOVED – Paula was LOVED – May God Bless us all though these times”
10/07/2025
“Sorry for your loss Keith and your love and marriage stood the test of time , you became an honorable member in Gods Kingdom and Paula sounds like she was with you every step of the way. I’m sure she is now in hands of our Lord Jesus Christ . I’m proud to call you a good friend Keith , Your friend Always Ken Mueller”
10/07/2025
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