Paula Kay Jones

Paula Kay Jones, 77, of Knightstown, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025, at The Willows in New Castle. She was born on September 8, 1948, in Decatur, IL, to the late William and Helen (Marshall) Oathout.

Paula and her husband, Larry, managed a hardware store together, a venture that consumed most of their working lives. Their partnership, both in business and in love, flourished for wonderful 39 years.

Paula was a passionate pet lover, especially when it came to her beloved cats. She found joy in quilting, gardening, and canning food, with a particular love for making salsa. Her home was often filled with the beauty of flowers. Paula took pride in teaching her daughters-in-law the art of canning, passing along family traditions that would continue to bring joy to future generations.

As an only child, Paula was her father’s pride and joy, a "daddy's girl" spoiled in the most loving way. Her love for reading provided her with an escape and a way to explore new worlds. Paula also cherished time spent at various zoos and camping on her son’s property by the creek with her husband Larry, memories that built a rich tapestry of family life and adventure.

Paula's friendly and happy disposition endeared her to many, and she was known for her unwavering smile and good attitude. Even in the midst of her sickness and pain, she never lost that gentle smile or her beautiful and kind spirit.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son, Chris (Diana) Schombert; grandchildren, CJ (Morgan) Schombert and Holly (Daniel) Montgomery; great grandchildren, Corbin and June Montgomery; son, Greg (Billie) Schombert; grandchildren, Sarah Schombert (fiancé Elijah Harris) and Luke Schombert; daughter-in-law, Michelle Schombert; grandchildren, Ryan (Haley) Crouch, Cassie Crouch, Logan Schombert, and Zac Schombert; and great grandchildren, Tommy and Garrett Crouch, Logan, Laina, Hadleigh, and Kaelynn Schombert.

In addition to her parents, Paula was preceded in death by her loving husband, Larry Jones; and her son, Mike Schombert.

A visitation in Paula’s honor will be held from 4:00pm-7:00pm on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Hinsey Brown Funeral Service in Knightstown. Cremation will follow with burial at a later date. You may express condolences or share a memory of Paula at www.hinsey-brown.com.