Paula Kay Henbest, 76, of Blue Springs, Mo., passed away on May 18, 2024, surrounded by the love and support of her family. She was born April 7, 1948, in Cassville, Mo., the daughter of Paul Henbest and Margaret Culver Henbest, who preceded her in death.

Also preceding her in death was her best friend Sharon Hardecke She was a 1966 graduate of Cassville High School, and received both a bachelor and master’s degree in education from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.

She spent her entire professional career dedicated to educating young minds, including teaching elementary school in both Cassville and the Springfield Public Schools. She was a proud and active member of the Springfield chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma, a professional society for women educators. She also attended National Heights Baptist Church with her father for many years and, most recently, attended First Baptist Church of Blue Springs.

Survivors include her sister Dr. Loretta (Lory) Feeler (Dale) of Tebbetts, Mo.; nephew Jeff Feeler (Heather) of Jefferson City, Mo.; niece Stephanie McDanel (Andrew) of Blue Springs; great-nephews Cooper and Tuck Feeler; great-nieces Lily, Harper, and Niyah McDanel and Sloane Feeler; and cousins Shirley McCullough and Pat Corle (Dick).

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Meyers Funeral Chapel in Blue Springs. A private family inurnment will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Cassville. Memorial donations may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.