Paulette Stray
Ms. Paulette Stray, 82, of Hickman, KY died Friday, April 24, 2026, at Diversicare of Martin.
Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, May 4, 2026, at Johnson Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Hickman, KY. Interment will follow in Hickman City Cemetery.
Visitation will begin at noon on Monday at the church.
Born on a June day in 1943 to Mr. and Mrs. Russell Stray Sr., Paulette Stray’s life began in the “Lower Bottoms” of Hickman, Kentucky. Growing up on the family farm, she learned the true meaning of resilience. In a time and place where survival meant working the land—plowing, raising, and harvesting—Paulette developed a tireless work ethic that would define her entire life.
It was on that farm that she honed a different kind of skill: the art of nourishing those she loved. Whether it was her legendary chicken and dumplings, her sweet homemade jelly, or the family-favorite chicken and dressing, Paulette’s cooking was a labor of love that brought everyone together.
Paulette carried that same dedication into her professional life, eventually retiring from Tyson Foods to begin a new, joyful chapter. This season of her life was her most cherished, as it allowed her to pour her time and heart into her family, her grandchildren, and her community. A faithful and devoted member of Johnson Chapel, she found great peace and purpose in her church family until the Lord called her home at the age of 82.
Paulette now joins those who preceded her in death: her parents; her sisters, Bessie Mae Davis, Carrie Lee Kinney, Annie Stray, and Florence Tucker; and her brothers, Willie B. Stray and Russell Stray Jr.
Her memory will be forever cherished by her beloved son, Russell Lamar Stray (Erica) of Hickman, KY; and her two precious grandchildren, Lamarious and Kadence Stray of Hickman, KY. She also leaves behind two sisters, Mrs. Evana Wilkins of Rantoul, Illinois, and Norma Hunter of Clinton, Kentucky, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and dear friends who were all touched by her spirit.
Paulette’s life was a testament to the beauty of hard work, the comfort of home-cooked meals, and the enduring strength of faith and family. She will be deeply missed.
McPhearson-Rawls Funeral Home – Union City 731-885-8110
