Paula Mae Wales Obituary (2025)

Paula Mae (Olney) Wales (7/30/58-11/28/25) was a near lifelong resident of Yakima, living most of her life in the Ahtanum area. She graduated from WVHS in 1976 and in 1977 married Larry, the love of her life. Paula was a very social person who loved spending time with friends & family. She enjoyed many evenings at home surrounded by family with the music up loud, making happy memories. She worked a variety of jobs but was most proud of her time as Librarian at Ahtanum Elementary. Paula grew up in a family that focused on the importance of family and being out in nature, which she instilled in her own family. She loved gardening and showing her yard to any guests who stopped by. Paula was proud of her Yakama Nation roots and spent hours researching her family's genealogy, going back to the Domesday Book from 1086. She was a member of The Daughters of The American Revolution. Paula was an artist with a crochet hook! Paula is survived by Larry Wales, her husband of 48 years; parents Chuck & Barbara Olney; daughters and their partners Celah & David, Kacey & Justin, Sarah & Michael, Haley & Dayrk; grandkids Ely, Cooper, Simon, Jack, Mary, Mae, Evelyn, Addilyn, Douglas, Pierce, Aleatha, & Jasper; brothers & sisters-in-law Cliff & Gina, Chuck & Nancy, and Clell & Launa and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces & nephews. There will be a Celebration Of her Life in the spring. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ahtanum Elementary PTA or West Valley Fire Department. Brookside Funeral Home & Crematory is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at brooksidefuneral.com.