Beloved Educator and Artist Paula Wakefield Perry Passes Away at 75

Madison, Wisconsin, USA - Paula Lynn Wakefield Perry, a beloved figure whose influence spanned across numerous states and disciplines, passed away on June 2, 2025, at the age of 75 in Proctorville, Ohio. Born on October 5, 1949, in Poland, Ohio, she was the daughter of Raymond and Rosemary Kerr Wakefield. Her journey was one filled with rich experiences and a deep appreciation for education and art.

A native of Ohio, Paula lived in various places throughout her life, including Niles, Ohio; Fayetteville, North Carolina; Key West, Florida; Bad Tolz, Germany; Madison, Wisconsin; and Monterey, California. Ultimately, she returned to Fayetteville before settling in Crown City, Ohio, in August 1997. This wide-ranging path reflects her adaptability and zest for life, which resonated with all who knew her.

Family and Legacy

Paula was married to Charles E. Perry in December 1968 when she was just 19. Together, they created a loving family. Paula is survived by her husband, Charlie, her son Christopher (Shannon), and three cherished grandchildren: Charles Christopher Perry, Hope Perry, and Danielle Daugherty (Jason). She also celebrated the joy of being a great-grandmother to Mariea and Riley Daugherty. In addition to her immediate family, she is survived by her older sister, Pam McCormick, and her niece, Lisa Nuti, who will surely remember her warmth and kindness.

Family acknowledgments are essential in obituaries, as they remind us of the bonds that make life meaningful. As many tributes do, Paula’s reflects not only her immediate family but the myriad relationships that enriched her life.

Career and Passions

Paula’s passion for education led her to earn a Bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University and Florida International University, a teaching degree in history and art history from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, and a Master’s degree in art history from Marshall University. She dedicated her career to shaping young minds as an adjunct professor of art and art history at Marshall University and Shawnee State University. Her love for teaching, much like her artistry, left a lasting impression on those she educated.

Art was more than a profession for Paula; it was her passion. She expressed herself through pastels and oil paints, alongside hobbies that included gardening, swimming, and sunbathing. These interests embellished her life with creativity and an appreciation for nature, inviting friends and family into her vibrant world.

Final Farewells

Local services honoring Paula’s life are scheduled for June 9, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home in Poland, with visitation preceding from 1 to 2 p.m. Paula will be laid to rest beside her mother at Poland Riverside Cemetery, where family and friends can visit and remember her spirit.

In lieu of flowers, the family has expressed a desire for monetary donations to Shawnee State University, a cause that Paula held dear throughout her life. It’s a testament to her impact that her legacy will continue to nurture future generations.

As we reflect on Paula Lynn Wakefield Perry’s life, it is clear she made the most of her time with us. Her story serves as an important reminder of the connections we forge and the lives we touch during our journeys. May she rest in peace.

For further details about her life and services, you may read more at Vindy or Echovita. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to pen an obituary, insights can also be found at Meadow Memorials.