Paula Bowman Yates, 79, of Mt. Perry, Ohio, passed from this life Friday, February 2, 2024, at her residence in Russell Springs, Kentucky. She was born December 26, 1944, in Marion, Indiana, to the late, Herb and Mary (Hobbs) Bowman.

After earning her bachelor's degree in nursing, Paula became one of the first registered nurses in the state of Georgia.  She was a very "hands on" and independent woman.  Paula was a strong advocate for equal rights for women in the late 70's, early 80's and was until her passing, an environmental conservationist, always supporting various organizations including the Arbor Day Foundation and National Wildlife Federation.  Being a very "outdoorsy" person, Paula loved raising a big garden and being out in the country air.  She loved all animals, especially her "fur-babies" and just wasn't able to turn a cat away.

She is survived by her daughters, Shawna (and Stephen) McHolan, of Russell Springs, Kentucky, and Kayla Yates, of Mount Perry, Ohio; her brothers, Jerry Lee Bowman, of Lincolnville, Indiana, and William "Butch" (and Debbie) Bowman, of Gas City, Indiana; her sisters, Janet Gary and Connie Jo "Tootie" Skeens, both of Marion, Indiana; and her five grandchildren.

Along with her parents, Paula is preceded in death by her brother, Jim Bowman; and her sister, Herbetta Cox.

A Memorial Service celebrating the life of Paula (Bowman) Yates will be at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at McDonald Funeral Homes, LaFontaine Chapel,104 South Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940.

Visitation for family and friends will be one hour prior to the service from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at the funeral home.

McDonald Funeral Homes, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 South Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940, have been trusted with Paula Yates' local final arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com