Paula Belle (McIntire) Eaton

Paula Belle McIntire Eaton, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, family member, travel agent, and friend, entered eternal life on June 12, 2026, at the age of 79. She will be remembered for her kindness, strength, grace, and the love she shared so generously with those around her. Born on December 29, 1946, in Washington, D.C., Paula lived a life marked by devotion to her family, faith, community, and the simple joys that made each day meaningful. She attended and graduated from Wittenberg University in Ohio from 1964 to 1968, a formative time that helped shape her bright future. Soon after, she married the love of her life, James Thomas Eaton, on July 13, 1968. As James was stationed in Germany, the newlyweds embarked on a grand adventure together, living abroad for several years before returning stateside to Louisville, KY, in 1972. In Louisville, Paula initially embarked on a short teaching adventure at Eastern High School. However, her deep passion for the world and its history eventually led her to a long, fulfilling career as a travel agent due to her love of travel. In May of 1994, she established her own business, Paula's World of Travel. She absolutely loved providing her vast knowledge and global experiences to all she encountered, helping countless people explore the world she loved so much. Anyone who knew Paula knew she never seemed to forget a name or a face. Her incredible memory was more than a talent—it was an expression of her love for people. She took a genuine interest in others, remembering details that made them feel special, a gift that served her well throughout her years helping travel clients create lasting memories of their own. Paula had a gift for making others feel welcomed and cared for, and her presence brought comfort, laughter, and warmth to every gathering. She was deeply loved by her children, grandchildren, extended family, and dear friends. Her legacy lives on in the lessons she taught, the memories she created, and the love she gave without measure. Over the past six years, Paula fought one inspirational battle after another. From surviving COVID-19 to overcoming countless setbacks, hospitalizations, and health challenges, she continually demonstrated the heart of a warrior. Just when it seemed she had reached her limit, she would find the strength to rise again, inspiring everyone around her with her determination, resilience, and unwavering will to live. Her family often marveled at her ability to keep moving forward, earning her the affectionate title of "Wonder Woman" more than once. The family is profoundly grateful to the many healthcare professionals who walked alongside Paula throughout this journey. We extend our sincere appreciation to every doctor, nurse, therapist, technician, caregiver, and support staff member who cared for her with skill and compassion. We offer our deepest thanks to Baptist Health Louisville, whose caregivers became an important part of Paula's story. Their dedication, kindness, and respect for both Paula and her family brought comfort during some of life's most challenging moments and will forever be remembered with gratitude. Paula is survived by her cherished children, Julie Eaton Abbott (Matthew) and James McIntire Eaton (Kyla); adored grandchildren, Kayla Abbott (Cooper Steinemann), Ethan Abbott (Karla), Jackson, Ava, R.J., Isabella, and Caleigh Eaton; dear sister, Jan von Doenhoff; sister-in-law, Patricia Eaton Gray; loving niece, Rebecca M. Gray Phillips (Eddie); nephew, Steven Gray (Katy); and godson, Dane Burton (Ellen). Awaiting her heavenly arrival were her husband, James Thomas Eaton; her parents, John and Elsie McIntire; her sister and brother-in-law, Elizabeth Ann and Bob Fifer; her brother-in-law, Richard von Doenhoff; and her niece, Lynn Fifer. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 19, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Owen Funeral Home, 9318 Taylorsville Road. A church service to honor and celebrate her life will take place on Saturday, June 20, at 11:00 am at St. John Lutheran Church, 901 Breckinridge Lane. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and gratitude for a life so beautifully lived. If you cannot join us in person on June 20th, please use this ZOOM link address for her church service: ID 671 535 477. Contributions can be made to St. Matthews Area Ministries, St. John Lutheran Church, Baptist Health Louisville Foundation, and Kosair for Kids, or a charity of your choice in honor of Paula Eaton's memory. Your support will help continue Paula's legacy and leave a meaningful impact in our communities. Paula will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Paula Belle (McIntire) Eaton

December 29, 1946 - June 12, 2026