Paula Plott Amos

Born in September 1946 to Leonard and Pauline Plott, Paula grew up in Wichita, Kansas, where she was surrounded by creativity, craftsmanship, and strong family values. Her parents were both hardworking and exceptionally talented—her mother, Pauline, an expert seamstress and skilled businesswoman who managed Leonard’s growing woodworking business, and her father, Leonard, a master woodworker whose handcrafted pieces adorn numerous churches and homes throughout Wichita, Hutchinson, and across Kansas.

From an early age, Paula worked alongside her father, often adding her own artistic touches to his creations. Her creative gifts became evident early in life, and during her senior year at Wichita South High School, she was honored as Kansas Junior Miss.

Paula’s passion for art and exploration led her around the world. She traveled to Tanzania, Africa, to visit her sister Linda, who served as Secretary to the American Ambassador, and during her time there, Paula climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. Her love of travel and culture would continue throughout her life.

She graduated from Wichita State University and went on to pursue a Master’s Degree in Fine Arts at the University of Oregon. Paula later married Stephen Amos, who became a clinical psychologist in Wichita. Early in their marriage, Paula traveled extensively throughout Europe while Stephen served as a First Lieutenant in the United States Army, stationed in Germany. During this time, she continued to create and sell her artwork.

Throughout her career, Paula’s creativity flourished in many forms. She served as Resident Artist for East Heights Methodist Church, where many of her works remain displayed. She also became Chief Designer for Crescent Industries in Taiwan, specializing in holiday giftware and accessories. Her work took her to factories in Taiwan and China, where she oversaw production of her designs—many of which were featured in major retail stores throughout the United States and beyond.

One of Paula’s most cherished endeavors was the annual exhibit at the Wichita Art Museum known as “The Plott Toy Shop,” a collaboration with her father. The exhibit showcased whimsical toys and artifacts, blending Leonard’s master craftsmanship with Paula’s distinctive eye for color and design. Her artwork has been displayed in homes and galleries across the United States and Europe.

Paula is survived by her loving husband, Stephen; her daughter, Rebecca, and her husband, Chris; her son, Kevin; her grandchildren, Grace, Noah, Liam, and Rowen; and her great-grandchildren, Copelynn and Brynley.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Pauline Plott; her son, Francis; her daughter, Sarah; and her grandson, Kieran.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or Botanica Wichita.

Paula will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.