Paula Jane

Melton

Paula Jane Melton was born on May 21, 1955, in Wichita, Kansas to Charley and Christine (Patton) Nichols. She passed peacefully from this life on June 22, 2025, in Purcell, Oklahoma.

Paula was a devoted Pentecostal, loving mother, and a gentle soul. She lived a life full of warmth, faith, and quiet creativity, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her. Her heart was drawn to the beauty of the natural world— she had a special love for elephants and butterflies, creatures she admired for their grace, strength, and transformation. She also had a fondness for collecting ceramic eggs, which brought her comfort and joy, each one a small treasure. Her talent for drawing flowers was more than a hobby—it was a reflection of how she saw the world: full of delicate beauty, color, and life.

A proud and loving mother, her children were her greatest joy and achievement. She spoke of them often and with shining eyes, always encouraging them to follow their hearts and stand strong in life.

For many years, she worked as a cook in a nursing home, where her nurturing spirit truly shined. She didn't just prepare meals—she offered comfort and care through her food, forming quiet connections with the residents she served. Paula was a proud member of the Chickasaw Nation.

Paula will be remembered for her gentle laughter, her unwavering faith, her creative spirit, and the deep love she held for her family. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and beauty—much like the flowers she loved to draw.

Paula is survived by her mother Christine Pearl Nichols of Blanchard; children Larry Melton and wife Kym Melton of Moore, Robin Melton and Sherri of Ponca City, Sharli Kanaugh and Joey of Blanchard; siblings Ronnie David Nichols of Blanchard, Gail Watson of Tulsa, and Davina Kniffin of Burleson, Texas; grandchildren Caleb Melton, Zoey Kanaugh, Mikayla Kanaugh, Brianna Kanaugh, David Boggs, Levi Boggs, Krystal Boggs, Jordan Genone, Aaron Genone, Timothy Melton, and James Melton; nephew Matthew Ray Barrett; niece Christine and husband Robert Kirbow; great niece Maggie Kirbow; and ex husband Jerry Melton.

Preceded in death by her father Charley David Nichols; son J.D. Melton; and brother Timothy David Nichols.

A funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 27, 2025, at Middleberg Baptist Church in Blanchard with a burial to follow at Blanchard Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Eisenhour Funeral Home. Arrangements are under the direction of Eisenhour Funeral Home of Blanchard. Online obituary and guestbook are available at www.eisenhourfh.com.