Paula Leonard, age 71, passed gently from her earthly life on Friday, June 21, 2024 at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

She was born April 1, 1953 in Wilmington one of eleven children of John and Elva Ivey Faircloth. In addition to her parents, Paula was preceded in death by her son, Lathan Leonard.

Paula is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Lewis (Matt); son, Travis Leonard (Marsha); grandchildren, Noah Lewis, Ian Lewis, Isaiah Leonard, Serenity Leonard, and Maisie Leonard; brother, Russell Faircloth (Ellen); sisters, Reva Fuller and Carolyn Marie Everett; and many nieces and nephews.

Paula loved the outdoors in God's wonderful world of nature – bird watching, tending her vegetable garden, and walking the beach shelling. She was an avid reader having begun reading at the young age of two. By heart Paula was a teacher helping to home school her grandchildren. Family was first and foremost in Paula's life as she created a home filled with love and caring. Paula will surely be missed by all of her family and many friends,

No services are planned at this time.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting Tribute Wall.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home of Burgaw.