Paula Anderson

Paula Jane Anderson passed away in the afternoon of April 13th, 2026, surrounding by her family. Although we wanted to give a proper goodbye, the lord chose otherwise and allowed her to pass away peacefully in her sleep.

Born Paula Jenkins on December 14th, 1961, in Indianapolis, Indiana, her story began. Life was rarely easy for Paula, but she never gave up hope that tomorrow would be a better day. Growing up as the oldest child and caring for her brothers and sisters, Paula taught herself the importance of family and responsibility. She spent most of her childhood, including teenage years at the Indiana Soldiers and Sailors Children’s Home in Knightstown, Indiana. This would be known for the rest of her life as the only place she considered “home”.

Paula and William raised the kids and built their family in Daleville, IN. Their hearts will always be in Daleville and loved being a part of the community.

She retired as Sergeant in the Indiana National Guard, with 20 years of dedicated service.

During her elementary school years at the children’s home, she met her husband Willie and celebrated their 38th wedding anniversary this past December. After his retirement they moved to Middletown, IN where they spent their time working on Pugsley’s Farm together milking 100+ cows twice a day for many years. What made this job so important was the fact that they could do it together. Paula was Willie’s best friend and life without her will be the most difficult part. No matter what house, town or story they lived in, Paula was his home and always will be.

She is survived by her husband and love of her life William Anderson; sons, Bud Tomlinson and Derrick Moistner; Daughters, Samantha Moistner, Tiffany Anderson and Jessica Rose; sister, Cora Bennett; brother, Joseph Jenkins. 9 Grandsons and 3 Granddaughters very special friend Angie Myers and Special Dog Named Chloe

She was preceded in death by a brother, Ted Jenkins; father, Cecil Jenkins; in-laws, William and Grace Anderson; parents she always needed, Margaret Burton and Forest Tomlinson; brothers in-law, Ted Huey and Tim Bennett; sister in-law, Joann Cavanaugh; niece Jennifer Huff; nephew Christopher Southworth.

There is a kind of love in this world that asks for nothing in return, that gives without keeping score and that stands steady through every season of life. That love lives in a Mamaw’s heart and the love for her grandchildren was quiet in its strength but powerful in its presence. Time may change as we all move forward, but we will never forget that our Mamaw was a gift and one that “her boys” will carry in their hearts forever. No matter where life takes them, they will always know what it feels like to be loved beyond measure. 

Services for Paula will be at 6:00 pm on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Ballard and Sons Funeral Home in Daleville. Visitation will be from 2;00 pm until the time of the service. Military Honors will be conducted by the United States Army and the Middletown American Legion just before the service. Memorial contributions can be made to Ballard and Sons Funeral Home to assist with the services. 

You may share a memory or express a condolence for Paula at www.ballardandsons.com.