Paula Jean Romero

August 1, 1965 – October 16, 2026

Paula Jean Romero (née Timmerman), aged 61, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2026, in Winchester, California.

Paula was born on August 1, 1965, in Rock Island, Illinois, to Patricia Kathleen Timmerman and James Camiel Timmerman. Growing up in Grand Haven, Michigan, Paula developed a lifelong passion for swimming and active living. She later participated in several endurance cycling events and mini triathlons. Dedicated to continuous learning and community, Paula attended San Diego State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Mexican-American Studies. She went on to earn her Multiple-Subject Teaching Credential at California State University, Long Beach, and later received a Master of Arts in Educational Technology from Azusa Pacific University.

Paula wed her devoted husband, Joseph Lawrence Romero, on February 21, 1997, in Santa Ana, California, during their first year of teaching. Together, they built a beautiful life founded on enduring love and mutual respect.

A passionate and dedicated educator for 29 years, Paula began her teaching career in the Santa Ana Unified School District, serving at Glenn L. Martin, Jim Thorpe, and Heninger Elementary Schools. After ten years, she relocated to Winchester, California, spending the remaining 19 years of her career in the Hemet Unified School District, teaching at Fruitvale Elementary and Winchester Elementary. Paula was thrilled by the spark of discovery in her students, encouraging them warmly through STEM projects and fostering a lifelong love of learning.

Beyond the classroom, Paula was a strong, courageous, and creative woman who lived life to the fullest. She loved reading and cherished the time spent with her book club. Above all, she was fiercely devoted to her family. When her father faced cognitive decline, Paula opened her home and heart to assist him in Arizona, selflessly offering her time, patience, and compassion. She truly modeled what it means to stand up for others and be there for family.

Paula is survived by her loving husband, Joseph Lawrence Romero; her children, Claudia Kathleen Romero, Alex Romero, and Joseph Paul Romero; her cherished grandson, Billy Dean Myrick-Cox; her brothers, David Timmerman, Peter Timmerman, Gary Timmerman, and Patrick Timmerman; her sister, Ann Elenbaas; Her cousin, Dan

Danielson; her aunts, Donna Wetemeyer and Marsha Timmerman; and her uncles, John Wetemeyer and Tom Timmerman.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Emmanuel Romero, and her parents, James and Patricia Timmerman.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Monday, November 9, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Four Seasons Clubhouse in Hemet. All who knew and loved Paula are welcome to attend and honor her memory.

The family extends its deepest gratitude to the Hemet Unified School District, UCSD Health, and Paula's many colleagues and friends for the overwhelming love, care, and support shown during this time.

Life is a journey of discovery and growth,

A series of moments that shape us both.

In the agglomerate of existence, we find our place,

Navigating challenges with honor and grace.

From the whispers of the wind to the roar of the sea,

Life's symphony plays in perfect harmony.

In the dance of light and shadow, we find our truth,

Embracing the beauty of age and youth.

Each step we take, each choice we make,

Adds to the story of the life we create.

In the agglomeration of life, we leave our mark,

A legacy of love, kindness, and spark.

So let us cherish each moment, each day,

And live our lives in a meaningful way.

For in the gallimaufry of existence, we find,

A reflection of our heart, soul, and mind.