Paula Kay Jackson, 57, born Oct 31, 1960 in Breckenridge, left this world June 14, 2018 embraced by the love of her family. Paula grew up in her small town surrounded by friends and family. After high school, Paula attended San Angelo State College. Paula forever had a love for adventure and new places. She lived in Colorado and New York before returning to her roots in in Texas. 

Paula began her battle with cancer many years ago. She triumphed over uterine cancer, throat cancer and a host of other health issues. She never faltered in her belief that she would beat it all. In many ways she did beat it. Cancer takes your energy, turns you sad and works to destroy your inner peace. Paula won by refusing to give up her faith, courage, and optimism. 

Her love for others was boundless. She was truly one of nicest and kindest person you ever met. Paula was a woman who struggled to overcome many challenges in life but walked with God in her heart. 

Paula loved the outdoors with a passion; it didn’t matter if she was fishing, camping or just enjoying some fun in the sun. She took great joy in teaching anyone, young or old, how to catch the big one. Paula always made friends easily.

Paula is survived by her loving family: her daughter and son-in-law, Marena and Gerardo Cruces; son, Jeff McDougal; mother and stepfather, Geneva and Terry Cochran; father, John Jackson; sister and brother-in-law, Pamela and Russell Smith; brother, John Jackson and fiancee, Kimberly Davis; nephew, Austin Smith; niece, Shelby Jackson; uncles and aunts, Junior and Cleo Riggins and Randell and Tresa Shannon; numerous cousins; dear friend Dave Fredrich, plus a host of close friends including Amber and Frank Gagliano and her puddins – Jamie and Kelby Ludwig and River Gagliano. 

Our family would like to acknowledge with love and appreciation all of the caregivers and friends during these difficult times. A memorial service in Taylor is set for June 23 at 2 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church. 

Donations in memory of Paula may be made to Hospice Austin or to your local animal shelter. There will be a future celebration of Paula’s life hosted by her daughter to scatter her ashes at a later date.