Paula Sue Bell, 62, of Chatham, Illinois, and formerly of Ashland, passed away Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Springfield Memorial Hospital.

She was born on July 17, 1963, the daughter of Carl and Donna (Thomas) Wester.

Paula is survived by her mother, Donna, of Ashland; children, Austin Bell (fiancé Madison Clem) of Chatham and Alex (Tim) Tackett of St. Paul, Minnesota; grandchildren, Sloan and TJ Tackett; and sisters, Carla (Craig) George and Lynn Eades. She was preceded in death by her father.

Paula graduated from Ashland High School as the Salutatorian of her class and later from Robert Morris College. She worked in the departments of transportation and revenue for the State of Illinois and retired in 2023. She also worked at Macy's and Bergner's at the cosmetic counter where she met her best friend, Paula Painter.

Paula had previously been a member of the First Baptist Church in Ashland. After she moved to Chatham in the early 2000s, she became a member of Cherry Hills Church in Springfield, where she was very involved. She attended bible study group, Sunday school, and also volunteered frequently with members of her church to help Wooden It Be Lovely, an organization that offers hope and employment to women healing from lives of poverty, addiction, and abuse.

She enjoyed gambling, particularly, slots. She loved spending time with her grandchildren, who affectionately called her "Lala." The most important aspects of her life were her faith, grandchildren, and friendship.

A funeral service will be held at 11 AM Friday, March 13, 2026, at Cherry Hills Church in Springfield, with burial at Ashland Cemetery to follow. The family will meet friends from 10 until the time of service. Memorial donations can be made to Wooden It Be Lovely. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home Ashland is in charge of the arrangements.