Paula Fussell Westbrook

Paula graduated from Blue Mountain College in Blue Mountain, Mississippi, earning a double major in English and Foreign Languages. She began her career as a teacher at South Side High School in Jackson, TN, where she taught students for 32 years. After retiring, she continued to share her love of learning by assisting in the libraries at South Side and several Jackson-area universities. She also continued as a substitute teacher at several high schools in Madison County.

On December 22, 1973, Paula married David Wayne Westbrook, and together they raised a family.

Paula took excellent care of her family with delicious meals and desserts. She enjoyed creative hobbies including cross-stitch and painting, and she enjoyed hosting and playing cards with friends. Following the passing of her husband, she used her talents to encourage friends at GriefShare for several years. She was a long-time member of West Jackson Baptist Church, where she nurtured many meaningful friendships and lived out her quiet, steady faith.

She is survived by her daughter, Allison (Mark) Abbott, and her son, Steven (Lana) Westbrook; her grandchildren, Mariana and Ryan Abbott; her sisters, Lesley Davis and Mary Beth (Jerry) Johnson; and her brother, Larry (Vicki) Fussell.

Paula will be remembered as an incredible teacher, a compassionate friend, for her holiday decorating, and for her love for music – especially from her favorite artist, Rosemary Clooney. Her legacy continues through the countless lives she taught, mentored, and served.

The family will receive friends and loved ones on Sunday, November 16, 2025 from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. at the North Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons Funeral Home. A private graveside service will follow at Sunset Cemetery in Dresden, TN.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to GriefShare at Calvary Baptist Church or West Jackson Baptist Church.