Paula Black Armstrong Keeling

Paula Black Armstrong Keeling, a cherished member of the community and beloved family matriarch, entered her heavenly home on December 4, 2024, at the age of 69. 

Born on March 29, 1955, in Houston, Texas, she was the daughter of the late Talmadge and Dorothy Black.

Paula’s journey of faith and devotion was evident in her life work and family. She graduated from Mexia High School, Class of 1973. She was employed by the Mexia State School for several years prior to moving to Athens,Texas where she retired from Athens ISD after 30 plus years as a paraprofessional. She was admired by all her students and co-workers.

Paula was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. Her family was her life, she was a proud mother but an even prouder grandmother. As a Nina/Nana Red, she was no exception, she cherished her grandchildren. She was a devoted wife. She was married to Randell Armstrong for 39 years, and she cared for him until his untimely passing in 2011. She and Coy Keeling were married in 2015. Coy came into Paulas life at the perfect time and they shared 10 wonderful, happy years together. He made her incredibly happy and it was evident to everyone how much she loved him. 

Paula had a true passion for music and was a very talented singer and pianist. She loved singing in her church. She was a new member of Fellowship Baptist choir. She loved karaoke and entertaining people with her beautiful voice. She instilled her love of music in her children and grandchildren. She grew up riding Horses and never lost her love for them. She was a dedicated member of the Order of the Eastern Star. She also was an avid Trump supporter, but above all she was a Godly woman who loved the Lord. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Talmadge and Dorothy Black; and husband, Randell Armstrong.Paula is survived by her husband, Coy Keeling; children, Malissa Windrow and Cameron Armstrong and wife, Nicole; stepson Gary Keeling and wife, Shelly; grandchildren, James, Emily and Kate Windrow and Zane and Eden Armstrong, Kyle Keeling and Brandon Burke; sisters, Elaine Williams and husband, Jeryl, Linda Chrisner; great granddaughter Olivia Keeling and several nieces and nephews. 

 Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m., Monday, December 9, 2024 at the Calvary Baptist Church in Mexia; visitation with the family will be prior to the service beginning at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be in the New Hope Cemetery near Jewett, TX