Paula Marie Small

Paula Small was embraced in the arms of her Savior on December 31, 2022. Born Paula Marie Larson on July 12, 1947 to Jack & Lois (Riese) Larson, Paula grew up as the second of four children in Houston, TX. Her unique and lively personality was apparent at a young age- creating memorable stories and humorous memories for all the people who knew and loved her.

Paula was vibrant and full of life, making friends easily wherever she went. As a high schooler, she sought to avoid gym class at all costs, which led her to cosmetology class, where she discovered the joy of expressing her individuality through interesting and sometimes outlandish hairstyles. After a fun-filled high school career where she was crowned Miss Aldine, Paula entered the workforce as a massage therapist, which remained her career throughout her working years. Paula met and married Randy Small in 1966. Together they welcomed a daughter, Kim. Paula greatly enjoyed their time stationed in Japan and settled in Houston after their time overseas.

Music was something near and dear to Paula. Blessed with a beautiful voice, she enjoyed singing three part harmony with her sisters, Pam and Teresa, as well as anyone else who wanted to join in. She led worship and cherished the opportunity to sing praise to the Lord, who was the anchor of her lifelong hope and joy. Writing music was a gift that allowed Paula to express the depth of her faith through word and song. Her home was filled with countless poems, lyrics and melodies composed and recorded on papers and tapes. These compositions reflected the profundity of her faith and the walk she shared with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

At her passing, Paula finally experienced the complete healing that she sought for many years. Upon entering the gates of heaven, she was surely embraced by the loved ones who have preceded her in death, including her beloved father, Jack Larson, brother Jimmy Larson, daughter Kim Small, nephew Brent Lane, former husband Randy Small, along with her grandparents, aunts, uncles, and family & friends who have gone before. She is survived by her mother, Lois Larson, sisters Pam Ellington and Teresa Lane, granddaughter Shanna-Marie Russell (Jared) and 3 grandchildren, along with nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and dear friends.

A graveside service has been scheduled for January 9th, 2023 at Aggie Field of Honor & Memorial Cemetery at 3:00pm.