Paula Joan (PJ) Warren passed away in the early morning of January 1, 2021 at her home in Bainville with her loving husband, Butch, by her side. She was 76-years-old.
On April 30, 1944, Paula (PJ) was born in Williston, North Dakota to John and Dag Simard. She was the youngest of two girls. She grew up outside of Bainville, Montana on the family farm until 1955 when her father built their home in town. She graduated from Bainville Public School in 1962.
Paula had a passion for teaching children so she attended MSU Billings to do just that, teach. She graduated in the spring of 1965 and her first teaching job started the following fall in Las Vegas, Nevada. She also taught in Sidney, Montana and Longview, Washington. However, 37 of her 39 years were spent alongside wonderful coworkers and friends in her hometown educating countless children including her three children, and three of her grandchildren. She retired in 2006.
On July 6, 1968 Paula married Vernon (Butch) Warren at the Lutheran church in Bainville. Butch and Paula celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary in 2018. Together they raised their three children, Melissa, Lafe and Rachelle, in Bainville. Over their 52 years they did everything together. Most importantly, they attended church. Paula loved Jesus with all her heart. Together they supported their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren alike. Whether they were gone to watch a sports game, a surgery, the birth of a baby, a wedding, graduation or family reunion. Butch would drive Paula so they were there together, with her beloved dog, Copper. Paula loved to go go go, especially for her family. I think we can all agree that when everyone came together for Christmas it was her favorite time of the year. She loved her family with everything she had and she loved to talk about their different accomplishments.
That love to go didn’t stop at family, though. Paula loved to travel with her friends as well. Paula (and Butch) took trips to Hawaii and a cruise to Alaska with friends. Paula went to many Women of Faith conventions. She loved going to Medora. She loved being at Bible studies, sitting at the round table for breakfast or just driving around to do a little shopping. Paula would go near and far for friends, especially in times of need and her home was always open to anyone, especially for a cup of Hazelnut coffee. If Paula couldn’t get to you, though, she sent a heart-felt homemade card in her place.
Paula loved all things that had sparkle. From her nails, hats, jewelry, clothing, shoes and crafting supplies, it all had bling. It was always a bonus if any of those things were Red, White and Blue.
Paula was a woman with many hobbies and talents! She played piano and guitar and sang for her church. She put together and helped with various programs. Her favorites were the school’s Veteran’s Day program and the church Christmas program. She volunteered where she could in the community and was part of the Red Hat Society. Another program close to her heart was Operation Christmas Child.
Paula loved to make scrapbooks, craft and bake with her grandkids and great grandkids. She loved making cards for every occasion. If you could join her while she did any of those things, she welcomed you with open arms! Her most valuable talent was her ability to make anyone and everyone she crossed paths with, feel loved. Paula only had friends, and everyone she met became a friend.
Paula was preceded in death by her father, John Simard, mother Dag Simard and sister, Judy Nelson.
Paula is survived by her husband, Butch Warren of Bainville, MT. Her three children, Melissa (Todd) Bonebrake of Bainville, MT, Lafe (Wendy) Warren of Rosebud, MT and Rachelle Ryder of Bainville, MT; her grandchildren Kylie (CJ) Johnston, Kendrick Bonebrake, Brac Warren, Collin Ryder, Cade Warren, Garrett Ryder, Johnna Ryder and Brynlie Elliff; her four great grandchildren Chandi, Charlie, Carson and Cimberly; numerous loved ones and special friends.
Any memorials please send to the Bainville Dollars for Scholars at PO Box 58, Bainville, MT 59212.
A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 17, 2021 at the Bainville school. Interment will follow at Bainville cemetery.
Condolences for the family may be left using the form below.
Wendy Smith says
Thoughts and prayers to Butch, Lafe, Melissa, Rachelle, and families, on the loss of such a strong lady of the community. She touched more lives in Bainville than anyone else. She will be missed by many.
Ashley Berwick says
So sorry to hear of Paula’s passing. One of my favorite teachers growing up and always had a smile for me when I ran into her in life. Praying for you all.
Ruthie Horob says
I was shocked to read of Paula’s sudden passing. My first thought was “I wonder how many students’ lives she touched throughout the years!” Countless, I’m thinking. My sympathies and prayers for peace and comfort, Butch, Melissa, Lafe and Rachelle.
Butch Zieske says
Our thoughts are for your family. We have enjoyed your friendship over the years. Paula was a pleasure to work with. She will be remembered.
Tonya South says
Paula was an amazing lady! When I worked at the Welcome stop and she came in for breakfast or lunch she always visited with everyone that passed thru the store. Such a delightful person. Hugs and prayers to the family
Tom & Thale Ludwick says
Paula was a wonderful teacher, friend, mother, grandmother &neighbor. We will miss her so much! Our love, hugs & prayers to Butch, Melissa, Lafe & Rachelle & families!
Chuck & Karen Johnston says
Warmest Condolences to the Family!!So sorry for your great Loss!!Hugs & Prayers to you all!! Love Chuck & Karen Johnston
Patti Fjelstad says
Butch & Family, thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Paula was such a bright spot in any day, there was no way a person could stay down with her around. Her love of life was almost infectious. She was loved by so many. She will be be missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing here.
Sherree Adams says
What a beautiful lady! My heart goes out 2u all!!
Sharon A, Smith says
Paula and Butch were good friends of Tom and I . They are special people, So very sorry for you loss. Praying for the family.May God give you peace in this time of grieving. Sharon Johnston Smith
Helen Steele says
Paula and I were in Buttreys in Miles City looking for ingredients for frogeye salad. We asked a young man working there, Where is your Acini del pepi? She started giggling and said I don’t think we know him well enough to ask him that! Great fun! We had a good laugh over that.
One day I happened to be in Montana Club in Missoula and they were eating lunch on the way back from one of Brac’s games in Oregon. So I scooted in next to her and said I think I know you! Nice surprise and a nice visit.
Your family has been blessed with a wonderful Mom, wife, partner in life. God rest her soul. I’ll miss my Facebook friend too.
Helen Steele
Ginny Kelly says
I was saddened to hear of Paula’s passing! She was such a great lady and will be so missed! She was a large part of Terry’s & my life when we lived in Bainville. I took care of her kids while she taught during the day. My prayers go out to all of her family! Love Ginny Kelly & family
Gennet Martin says
I’m thinking of your family today as Paula is laid to rest. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you face the days ahead. She will be missed by many; we will all cherish the happy memories we have of her.
Jane Janssen-Huber and Paul says
We enjoyed Paula’s friendship and fun the 6 years we were in Bainville. She did a great job of getting me (Jane) around my new community. We Enjoyed having matching denim jackets, they were on sale. Go in Peace to Peace. Blessings for your family
Eileen Barr Luebke says
The loss of Paula is a big loss! She and I were friends since we were very young. I’m still trying to process this but I know that Paula resides with the Lord. I’m grateful, for a long lasting friendship and that the Lord orchestrated that wonderful relationship! Paula, Know that you were so loved by so many. You brought value to so many lives! You did good! God loves you and so do i.