Paula Michael, age 72, of Rockford, went to be with her Heavenly Father on Thursday, August 12, 2021, at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus.

She was born October 28, 1948, in Celina, to Paul Pumphrey May Sr. and Bernice Viola (Forwerck) May, who both preceded her in death. Paula and Laurence E. "Butch" Michael Jr. were married on September 28, 1968.

Butch survives, along with their two daughters: Melinda (Brian) Warthman of Dayton, and Kristina (James R.) Bennett II of Russells Point, and three grandchildren: Mariell Thimme, Margaret Warthman and James Bennett. Also surviving are a brother and two sisters: Thomas O. (Pam) May of Celina, Karen (Loel) Handley of Greer, South Carolina, and Susann Gurley of Rockford, a sister-in-law, Connie Bigham of Rockford, and several nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by two brothers: Jerry Tumey and Paul P. May Jr., sister-in-law, Mary Ann (John) Harris, and brother-in-law, Dave Bigham.

Paula was a 1966 graduate of Parkway High School. She had been employed in the offices at Central Soya in Decatur, Huffy Bicycles in Celina, the Rockford Stone Company and Rockford Dental Clinic, and lastly, retired from the Cheryl Ann Mercer County Board of MRDD Programs.

Paula loved the Lord, and was a member of the Rockford United Methodist Church and Rockford Eagles Lodge #1292. Favorite pastimes were traveling and playing BINGO, and she enjoyed collecting Precious Moments figurines. Most of all, Paula loved spending time with family and friends, attending her grandchildren's events, and taking care of her grandkids and grand-puppies.

Calling Hours are from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 18, at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Celina.

Celebration of Life Services will follow at 6:00, with Pastor Chip Steffy officiating. Burial will be at a later date at Mercer Memory Gardens, Celina.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Rockford United Methodist Church or The Cancer Association of Mercer County.

Condolences can be expressed to Paula's family at dickandsonshellwarthfh.com.