Paula Janelle Coffman

July 10, 1945 – September 5, 2016

Paula Janelle (Freeman) Coffman was born in Chickasha, Oklahoma to Leon and Crystal Freeman. After graduating from Midwest City High School in 1963, she was accepted into the University of Oklahoma School of Drama on a full scholarship and obtained her Bachelors degree from OU in 1967.

She married David Coffman on December 28, 1976, and raised four children, first in the Midwest City-Del City area and then in her beloved Norman. Her flair for the dramatic was put to good use as an English teacher at Monroney Junior High in Midwest City. For over 25 years, she introduced thousands of kids to Shakespeare through “Romeo and Juliet.” She loved bringing the story and his words to life for her students, and often quoted the play to family and friends. She finished her career at Norman North High School.

Paula was deeply devoted to her alma mater, OU football and the colors crimson and cream (orange was a different story). She had a flair for decorating, loved Christmas, and was passionate about her dogs. She also enjoyed traveling, collecting local art, volunteering with organizations like the Assistance League of Norman, La Baguette pastries, and having lunch with her many friends.

Paula was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by David, her husband of 39 years; four children: Amber Carlton (and husband Mitch) of Colorado Springs, CO, Dr. Krista Singleton (and husband Chad Wulf) of Newalla, OK, Josh Coffman of Kansas City, MO, and Candice Hillenbrand (and husband Dan) of Oklahoma City; two granddaughters: Noel and Maddie Bea Hillenbrand; and a host of dear friends.

“Parting is such sweet sorrow that I shall say goodnight ‘til it be morrow.”