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Barbara Paulita McGahey, known to friends and family as Paulita, was born on August 7, 1929, in Olney, Texas. She passed away peacefully on November 13, 2023, in Denison, Texas at the age of 94. Paulita was a beacon of intelligence, kindness, and passion, whose life was marked by her dedication to her family, her community, and her love of learning.
Paulita was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Velma (Mixon) Pratt, her beloved husband Jack, who she lost on June 17, 1980, and her brother Harold Davis. She is survived by her devoted children, Lisa Tomlinson and her husband David of Cartwright, Oklahoma, and John McGahey and his wife Camille of Florida. Paulita's legacy also lives on in her cherished grandchildren: Rebecca Whitehurst and her husband Dean of Durant, Oklahoma, Caleb Tomlinson and his wife Lauren of Alvarado, Texas, Allison Kennell and her husband Alex of Florida, and Jennifer McGahey of Florida, as well as her six great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
Paulita was a lifelong learner, earning her Master's degree and dedicating her professional career to social work. She was a tireless advocate for those in need, and her work had a profound impact on the many lives she touched. Her commitment to service extended beyond her professional life, as she was an active member of various organizations, including the AARP, DAV Auxiliary, American Legion Auxiliary, Durant Literacy Council, Gold Star Wives, and the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP).
Beyond her work and community involvement, Paulita had a love for reading and a passion for singing and playing the piano. Her love for hymns was well-known among her family and friends, and her beautiful voice often filled the rooms of her home. Paulita also enjoyed traveling. She loved exploring new places and meeting new people, always eager to learn and experience more of the world. As a big sports fan, she had an unyielding loyalty to the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, and OU, often cheering them on with fervor and excitement.
As we remember Paulita, we celebrate her life and the love she shared with all who knew her. Her spirit, her passion for life, and her unwavering commitment to helping others will forever be remembered and cherished. May her soul rest in peace, and may her light continue to shine in the hearts of those she loved.
Family Hour is set for Friday, November 17, 2023 from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., November 18, 2023 at Highland Cemetery where she will be laid to rest.
Her family suggests that in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to Calera United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 288, Calera, Oklahoma 74730, or to your favorite charity.
Services are under the direction of Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home, 121 North 5th Street, Durant, Oklahoma 74701. www.holmescoffeymurray.com
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