Paula Sue Gabrish

Born on November 6, 1960, in Norman, Oklahoma, Paula was the beloved daughter of John and Wilma Gabrish. She was the third of four siblings, growing up alongside her older brother George and sister Carol, and later welcoming her younger brother Myrle into the family.

A proud graduate of Moore High School (Class of 1979), Paula went on to earn her degree in Accounting from Rose State College. Under the guidance of her brother George, she took a job with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), where she enjoyed a successful career that spanned over three decades, retiring in 2016. During her time with the FAA, Paula was an active member of Toastmasters, earning numerous awards and forming friendships that lasted throughout her life.

Paula had a variety of passions, from photography and painting to crocheting, but her greatest joy came from giving back to the community. She was a dedicated supporter of Moore High School, where she proudly contributed to the Moore High School Alumni Association and supported the marching band, offering both her time and financial gifts to help the students.

An adventurous and independent woman, Paula loved to travel and experience new things. Although she never married or had children of her own, she was a devoted and loving aunt to her four nieces—Jennifer, Heather, Angela, and Michelle—whom she loved as if they were her own daughters. Paula’s care also extended to her 14 great-nieces and great-nephews, as well as many other family members who were fortunate to know her. Paula's love and guidance as a second mother to her nieces left an enduring mark on their hearts, a bond they will cherish forever.

Paula was preceded in death by her parents, John and Wilma, and her two brothers, George and Myrle.

She is survived by her sister, Carol Miller of Mustang, Oklahoma; her nieces—Jennifer Snow and husband Thomas of Moore, OK; Heather Ortega and husband Eduardo of Moore, OK; Angela Velasquez and husband Nathan of Oklahoma City, OK; and Michelle Perry of Yukon, OK. She also leaves behind 14 great-nieces and great-nephews—Kolani, Abigail, Jeremiah, Javier, Asher, Benicio, Ari, Aliyah, Elias, Saint Sebastian, Isaac, Ezra, Ezekiel, and George Wesley—along with many other beloved family members and friends.

A funeral service will be held at Primrose Funeral Home in Norman, Oklahoma, on Monday, February 10, 2025, at 2:00 PM. A viewing will take place on Sunday, February 9th, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Moore High School Alumni Association in Paula’s memory.