Paula Parker Nelson

Paula Parker Nelson, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2026, in Frisco, Texas. She was born on February 2, 1948, in Dallas, Texas, to Ruby and Paul Miner.

Paula lived a life defined by strength, determination, generosity, and love. She was an incredibly independent and driven woman who never allowed circumstances—or even age—to tell her what she could or could not accomplish. One of her proudest achievements came later in life when she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business from Dallas Baptist University. Her accomplishment was a testament to her perseverance and became an inspiration to everyone who knew her. Paula believed in continuing to grow, challenging herself, and showing others that it is never too late to pursue a dream.

She built a career with Lockheed Martin and was also a proud member of the Arlington Women’s Club. Throughout her life, Paula gave generously of herself and her resources, supporting numerous charitable organizations and causes that were close to her heart.

But above all of her accomplishments, Paula treasured her family.

She was a devoted mother to Crissie Faye Jacobs and son-in-law Jason Jacobs Sr., and she took great pride in the people they became. She especially loved her daughter and made it her mission to be an example of what it meant to be a strong, independent woman. Paula’s love was not always expressed in grand gestures; it was found in her constant support, thoughtful acts, encouragement, and unwavering presence.

Her grandchildren, Jason Jacobs Jr. and Haleigh Grace Jacobs, held a very special place in her heart. Paula made memories with them that they will carry throughout their lives, including countless ice cream and museum dates. She showed up for their school events and made sure they knew, without a doubt, that their accomplishments mattered to her. She was present, proud, and never afraid to let the world know how much she loved her grandchildren.

Paula shared a particularly special bond with her twin sister, Terre LaJudice. For the last 22 years of her life, Paula and Terre lived together, sharing not only a home but countless memories, laughter, adventures, and everyday moments. They were truly partners in crime, always by each other's side and enjoying life together. Paula cherished the time she spent with Terre, and their bond as twin sisters was a source of comfort, companionship, and joy throughout those years. Their relationship was a beautiful reflection of the deep connection they had shared since the very beginning of their lives.

Paula had a warm and loving spirit and brought her own special joy to the lives of those around her. She loved her friends and cherished the time they spent together, particularly when gathered around a table playing cards. She enjoyed shopping, watching movies, and collecting beautiful Lladro pieces. She also loved the arts and movement, having participated in both tap and ballet.

Those who knew Paula will remember her as a woman who lived life on her own terms. She was strong without losing her tenderness, independent without losing her capacity to love deeply, and determined while always remaining generous and thoughtful. She believed in showing up—for her family, her friends, her community, and the people and causes she cared about.

Paula leaves behind a legacy far greater than her accomplishments. She leaves behind the example of a woman who continued to dream, learn, give, love, and grow throughout her life. Her family and friends will miss her laughter, her presence, her generosity, her thoughtful gestures, and the unmistakable way she made the people she loved feel seen and supported.

Paula is survived by her daughter, Crissie Faye Jacobs; her son-in-law, Jason Jacobs Sr.; her grandchildren, Jason Jacobs Jr. and Haleigh Grace Jacobs; her beloved Gran-Dog, River Song; her sister, Terre LaJudice; and many cherished friends and loved ones whose lives were made better by knowing her.

Her memory will live on in every family gathering, every shared card game, every museum and ice cream date, every act of generosity, and in the strength and love she passed on to those she held closest to her heart.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Paula’s memory.

Paula’s life was a beautiful reminder that it is never too late to pursue a dream, never too small an opportunity to show love, and never too ordinary a moment to make a lasting memory. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.