Paula Orena James

  Paula Orena James, age 83, passed peacefully from this life on Wednesday, June 3, 2026. 

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Paula touched many lives with her dedication and servant's heart

  Born on December 23, 1942, in Knox City, Texas, Paula was the daughter of Charles Nathan Gruben and Pauline (Smith) Gruben. Throughout her life, she made her home in several communities, including Weatherford, Texas (1949-1961), Beaumont, Texas (1961-1971), Lumberton, Texas (1971-1990), Corona, California (1990-2001), before returning to Weatherford in 2001 to enjoy her retirement years among family and friends. 

  In February 1960, Paula married the love of her life, John W. “Jay” James, in Weatherford, Texas. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, service, and love, creating countless treasured memories until Jay's passing in October 2000. Their marriage was a testament to devotion and partnership, and the family they nurtured remained Paula's greatest joy and proudest accomplishment. 

  Paula was also preceded in death by her parents, Nathan and Pauline Gruben, and by her brothers, Jackie Gruben and Gary Gruben and his wife, Pam. 

  A woman of deep faith, Paula was a devoted member of North Side Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir and faithfully served others. Her heart for ministry led her to serve as Past Director of Widows Ministering to Widows, offering comfort and companionship to those walking through loss. She also served as Past President of the Evergreen Club and formerly as Church Secretary of First Baptist Church in Lumberton, Texas. 

  Throughout the years, Paula remained actively involved in her community and civic organizations. She served as Deputy Grand Matron in California and as Past Matron for both Weatherford Eastern Star #21 and Brock Eastern Star #274. Whether through church, community service, or friendship, Paula touched many lives with her dedication and servant's heart. 

  Gifted with creativity and a strong work ethic, Paula worked as a professional seamstress from her home and also crafted draperies for J.C. Penney. Yet among all her accomplishments, she considered her most important role to be that of wife, mother, grandmother, and homemaker. Her home was a place of warmth and love, and she took great pride in caring for those she cherished. 

  Paula is survived by her son, Johnny James and wife, Karen; daughter, Darla Dunaway and husband, Larry; sister in law, Shirley Gruben; five adored grandchildren, Tiffani Szymkowiak (Vinnie), Jennifer Wade (Tony), Dallas Dunaway (Sabrina), Jesse James, and Sam James (Traci); seven great grandchildren, V.J., Lacey, and Darlie Szymkowiak, Wakely and Townsley Wade, and Britton and Briley James; step-grandson, Chris Macharelli (Kelsie), and step-great grandson, Carson Macharelli; step-granddaughter, Amanda Roach (Adam), and step-great grandchildren, Natalie and Tyler Roach; and numerous nieces and nephews. The last few years of her life she had a very special relationship with her loving caregiver, Samantha Coffey. They shared a special bond that was very loving and brightened the last few years of her life.

  Those who knew Paula will remember her gentle heart, unwavering faith, beautiful singing voice, skilled hands, and her genuine love for people. She found joy in serving others, treasured time spent with family, and left a legacy of kindness and grace that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

  A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Memory Gardens of the Valley Cemetery in Weatherford, Texas.

  Memorial donations may be made to Shriners Children's.

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