Paula Faye Roberts

Paula Faye Davis Hendrick Frenkel Royals Roberts, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, musician, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by love on May 6, 2026. She lived a life defined by faith, creativity, resilience, and an adventurous spirit that carried her through many meaningful chapters.

Born in Fort Worth, Texas, on February 19, 1944, Paula was the daughter of Walker Loveless Davis and Fay Davis. She grew up on a farm with her sisters, Barbara and Vonna, in a home shaped by family, music, and hard work. Her father’s work with Greyhound introduced her to music in an unexpected way—he often brought home instruments left behind on buses. Paula quickly discovered a natural talent and developed a lifelong love of music and performance.

As a young woman, Paula moved with her family to Kansas City, where she became active in music, theater, and school activities. Determined to earn the lead role in her school’s production of Cinderella, she worked hard to soften her Texas accent and succeeded in winning the role. She also served as a majorette in the marching band. During this time, she met James Bryce Hendrick, whom she married on July 7, 1962, in Miami, Oklahoma.

Together, Paula and Jim built a full and lively home, raising five children: Lance, Kyle, Derek, Kristen, and Chad. Their family life was filled with music, sports, laughter, and love. Over the years, they lived in Charlotte and St. Louis before settling in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1975.

After moving to Tulsa, Paula worked at Renberg’s Department Store and later at Rhema Bible College, where she spent approximately ten years. Her Christian faith remained a steady foundation throughout her life and guided her through both joy and hardship.

Following the end of her first marriage, Paula faced one of the most difficult seasons of her life while raising two school-aged children. Through determination and faith, she rebuilt her life, rediscovered her independence, and found strength in new friendships and routines. She developed a love for running, often covering long distances several times a week, and embraced a more active chapter of life.

In 1992, Paula married Max Frenkel, beginning a season she often described as her “vacation years.” Together they traveled extensively throughout Europe, the Middle East, Slovakia, and Israel. They shared a love of dancing, cruises, and exploration that brought her great joy. After settling in Palm Beach, Florida, Paula became deeply involved in her retirement community, where she performed, choreographed, and participated in numerous productions. She also enjoyed tennis, swimming, and an active social life. Paula lovingly cared for Max during his illness until his passing in 2001.

After Max’s passing, Paula returned to work, where she met Christi Royals, who eventually introduced her to her father, Harold Royals. Paula and Harold married on April 28, 2004, and built a deeply joyful life together. They made homes in Hendersonville, North Carolina, and later Alabama, where they created Royal Heights Ranch and cared for alpacas, chickens, and peacocks. Paula found great joy in music during these years, writing songs for church and for the simple rhythms of daily life.

Paula and Harold shared a strong and loving partnership until his passing in 2020. Following his death, Paula eventually returned to Tulsa to be closer to family. She found comfort in her church community at Metro, treasured her friendships, and enjoyed the companionship of her beloved dog, Schautzi. Returning home allowed her to once again be surrounded by familiar love and support.

In her later years, Paula became active at Metro Church, where she formed many cherished friendships and found a strong sense of community. It was there she met Robin Roberts, whom she married on January 19, 2024. While their time together was brief, Paula continued to embrace life, companionship, and new experiences with her whole heart and her characteristic humor. Robin passed away on September 29, 2024.

Paula was preceded in death by her parents, Walker and Fay Davis; her son, Lance Hendrick; and her husbands, James Hendrick, Max Frenkle, Harold Royals and Robin Roberts.

She is survived by her children Kyle Hendrick, Derek Hendrick, Kristen Sneed, and Chad Hendrick; daughter-in-law Sarah Hendrick; son-in-law Dale Sneed; grandchildren Hanna Noyes, Abigail Noyes, and Samuel Hendrick; great-grandson Benjamin Littledave; sisters Barbara and Vonna; and many extended family members and dear friends.

Paula will be remembered for her warmth, creativity, resilience, and unwavering love for her family and friends. Her life touched many across every chapter she lived, and her legacy will continue through the people who loved her and the music, memories, and joy she leaves behind.

Services will be announced on Paula’s Facebook page as soon as the date is available: https://www.facebook.com/paula.royals.73