Paula Dwanda Porter

Loving, Strong, Caring, Silly, Sweet, Kind-hearted, A great cook, A natural nurturer. If you asked those who knew her, these are just a few of the words they'd use to describe Paula. She was the one who lifted your spirits when you were down, who felt your pain when you suffered, who helped without hesitation. She could make a miracle meal from scratch, and she cared for children like they were her own from birth and beyond. Paula was all of this and more.

Her beautiful story began on April 1, 1963, in Savannah, Tennessee. Born to Edna Margaret and Willie Lee Steele, Paula entered the world as their fifth daughter, only for her mother to be surprised moments later when her twin brother, Paul, arrived. Paula proudly held the title of oldest among Edna and Willie's cherished set of twins. Raised in a large, close-knit family, Paula was surrounded by love from her many siblings, nieces, and nephews. To many, she was affectionately known as "the favorite aunt", a title she earned through her generous spirit, infectious humor, and the way she made everyone feel seen, valued, and loved.

Paula excelled in school. She loved learning, and her strong grades reflected her dedication. During her school years, she was a cheerleader and sang in the school chorus, sharing her vibrant energy and love of music with classmates and friends. She later worked alongside family and close friends at Angelica Manufacturing and Cross Country Manufacturing, but the job she cherished most was caring for her nieces. Babysitting them, making sure they were clothed, fed, and wanted for nothing brought her immense joy and fulfillment.

Paula's love language was food. Her homemade pizzas and famous chili were legendary, bringing the family together time and time again. She had a sweet tooth and found joy in savoring her favorite treats with a warm cup of coffee in hand.

She embraced life's simple pleasures: long walks, front porch chats, and music that stirred the soul. Singing along to the radio was one of her purest joys. Whether it was a peaceful drive or just a spontaneous adventure, Paula was always ready to ride front seat, smile on her face, heart full of excitement.

Paula was a devoted member of St. John's Missionary Baptist Church, where she was a passionate advocate and faithful servant. She sang in the church choir for many years, lifting spirits with her voice and deepening her connection to her faith and community. Above all, Paula was a devoted mother to her daughters, Shelby Lusk (Jon) and Timia Porter, and a proud grandmother to Jayla Patterson, Jayden Lusk, and Jonathan Sims, Jr. Her family was her greatest joy, and she embraced every opportunity to nurture, support, and love them.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edna Margaret and Willie Lee Steele; her sisters, Brenda Lee Steele and Patricia Irvin; and her brother, Roy Gene Dixon. The recent passing of her beloved mother just last year was an immense loss, one Paula carried with strength and grace. We find comfort in knowing she is now reunited with them in peaceful rest.

Along with her children and grandchildren, Paula is survived by her loving siblings: Nancy Ellens (James), Melvin Siner, Sr. (Rochelle), Johnny Goodlow (Phyllis), Joyce Cherry, Paul Porter, Renata Casundra Porter, Priscilla Whitehurst (Jeffrey), and Margaret Steele. She was also a cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews who adored her deeply.

Her nickname, Gusta, was passed down from her great-grandmother, Moma Gusta, a name that reflected the nurturing, mothering qualities they both shared. Yes, it runs in the blood.

Paula was indeed a hoot. She wouldn't walk into a kitchen and leave a cabinet open, or enter a house and leave a door unlocked. The moment you stepped outside, the door was locked, sometimes even while you were still on the porch. Her family will miss these little things: her morning sugar toast, her waffles, her spontaneous "let's go for a ride". The sounds of cabinets closing, silverware clinking in cereal bowls, and doors locking will forever echo in the hearts of those who loved her. Those were the sounds that said, Paula's here. Paula's awake.

One of the most tender memories her family holds dear is how Paula ended every phone call with the same loving words: "I love you, miss you and talk to you later". It was her signature farewell. Simple, heartfelt and full of warmth that defined who she was.

On November 13, 2025, Paula departed this life doing one of the things she loved best, watching sitcoms, and God called her home in a sweet rest. Though her time with us was far too short, she filled every moment with warmth, laughter, and love.

Paula leaves behind a legacy of compassion, faith, and unforgettable memories. She will be deeply missed by her daughters, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews, church family, and all who were blessed to know her.

May her radiant spirit rest in everlasting peace.