Paula Elaine Geilenfeld

A memorial service celebrating the life of Paula Geilenfeld will be held at 10:00am, Saturday, May 11, 2024, at The Porch Church in Inola.  She passed away on Thursday, May 2, 2024.  She was 71.

Paula Elaine Grigg was born on April 19, 1953, in Pryor, Oklahoma, to Robert “Bob” and Deloris Grigg.  The oldest of four kids, she was raised and attended school in Inola, graduating with the Class of 1971.  Paula continued her studies at Northeastern State University, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Education.  In August of 1973, Paula married her best friend, Gary Geilenfeld.  Together they made their home in Inola.

The school was Paula’s ‘second home’.  The students she taught and close friends she made during her time there were truly meaningful.  Her journey in the field of education began at Gregory School, where she taught for over 10 years.  After Gregory closed in the mid-80s, Paula came to Inola Public Schools, where she continued to share her passion for teaching with countless students for many more years, leaving a lasting impact on those she encountered. 

Outside of teaching, Paula found joy in life's simple pleasures.  She and Gary enjoyed traveling and time spent with family and friends.  In 1986, Paula and Gary completed their family, welcoming their daughter, Valerie, into their hearts.  Paula’s greatest joy was Valerie, and she never ceased giving of herself to provide her with the best life she could.

Paula is lovingly remembered by her daughter Valerie with her boyfriend Daniel; her sister Kathy Froese and brother Robert Grigg; nephews Gary Joe Froese and Robert Froese with his wife Beth and son Waylon; nephew Brian Grigg; and many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bob and Deloris Grigg; her grandparents, Stella and Linus Borneman; her brother Dennis Grigg; and her husband Gary Geilenfeld.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a memorial donation for the ‘Community Van’.  This resource came about from a need Paula had for wheelchair accessible transportation, and, with your help, will continue to assist many others in the community.  Please make checks payable to Inola Area Farmers and Ranchers, P.O. Box 1312, Inola, Oklahoma 74036, or stop by either bank in town.