Paula Marie Welsh-Howard

Paula Marie Welsh-Howard was born in Marquette, Michigan in 1961 to Margaret Janet (Tuxworth) Welsh and John Willard Welsh. She was the cherished baby sister to Shelly Anne (Welsh) Davis, Laura Jane (Welsh) Fagan and Janet Suzanne Welsh Crossley.

The family moved to Fort Collins, Colorado when Paula was three, where she enjoyed horseback riding, playing with numerous animal companions, reading, singing, playing softball, and swimming on the Swim Team. Music was one of Paula’s lifelong joys: she played the cello in the Fort Collins High School Orchestra, took Opera lessons and studied the guitar and organ. She was adventurous and loved the outdoors; including working on a trail maintenance crew one summer for a conservation organization.

She began university at Montana State University and completed her B.A. in English and Political Science at the University of Colorado, Boulder. She then became a Paralegal and worked in that field, among others, for many years. For an additional career, Paula studied education and worked in the Bennett Schools and at Corridor Community Academy. She met the love of her life and soulmate, James (Jim) Leroy Howard, while working as a Paralegal. They were married in 1997 and settled in Bennett, Colorado. She was elated to become the mother of their son Brandon Alexander Howard, of whom she was very proud. Paula loved reading mysteries, going to the movies, traveling, and serving the community and her church, including volunteering for the Town of Bennett.

Paula's love of animals endured throughout her life and she supported several animal charities. Her faith in Christ grew as she matured, and she enjoyed listening to Christian music and hosting movie nights at church.

She was predeceased by her beloved parents, aunts and uncles, two brothers-in-law, numerous cherished family pets and some dear friends. She is survived by her loving husband Jim, son Brandon, sisters Shelly, Laura, and Janet, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

The Celebration of Paula’s life will take place at Strasburg Presbyterian Church, 56635 Iowa Avenue, Strasburg, CO 80136 on August 15, 2026 at 1:00 pm, with a light reception following. There will be an opportunity during the reception to donate to three charities which Paula held dear: Blood Cancer United, The Wild Animal Sanctuary (Keenesburg, Colorado), and Brent’s Place. If you are unable to attend, you may still donate to these charities in her honor.