Paula Lloyd

Paula was born on August 26, 1936, to Alma and Paul H. “Pete” Armbruster, in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Paula’s greatest joys in life came from her family. The apple of her father’s eye, she passed that love along to her son and grandchildren. Home cooked meals and deep conversations were a constant in her home. She always offered a perspective that helped her loved ones stay focused on the importance of supporting one another and being there for the ones you love.

Second only to the love for her son and grandchildren, Paula had a passion for education. She is a graduate of County Line High School and University of the Ozarks. That passion lead to a teaching career, largely focused on English language learners of various levels, from Maryville University in Saint Louis, MO to Kimmons Junior High is Fort Smith, AR. Not only did she take great pride in teaching her students how to function within the English language, but also enjoyed learning about their cultures and journeys. Over her career she was able to impact the lives of many and amass a collection of wonderful and dedicated students, and parents, many of whom became friends from across the globe.

Paula was predeceased by her mother and father, Alma and Paul H. “Pete” Armbruster. She is survived by her brother, David Armbruster of Fort Smith, AR (wife Joy, daughters Tracy Armbruster and Amanda Fry, and grandson Blake Bulger); her son, John Paul Pendergrass of Charleston, AR (wife Catherine); grandson, Eric Pendergrass of Fort Smith (wife Meighan and daughter Millie); and granddaughter, Catherine Grace Morrison of Hurlbert Field, Florida (husband Christopher and daughters Molly and Maggie); as well as a host of cousins, extended family, friends, and students.

Visitation will begin at 5 PM, and the Rosary will be said at 6 PM, at Edwards Funeral Home on Friday, June 16, 2023. Funeral Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Charleston, AR on Saturday, June 17, 2023 at 10:00am.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, an organization Paula felt strongly about, or a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be sent to: www.edwardsfuneralhome.com