Paula Jean (Carver) Lawrence

Paula Jean (Carver) Lawrence, 73, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Sunday evening, April 19, 2026, at her home in Brown County.

Paula was born on September 18, 1952, in Beech Grove, Indiana, to the late Lester “Les” Carver and Dorothy Mae (Pitt) Lewis. After graduating from Franklin Central High School, she went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Indiana University.

Paula married James T. Lawrence in Indianapolis, and they shared 30 years of marriage together until his passing. Paula dedicated her career to public service, working as a Public Assistance Case Worker for the State of Indiana for 30 years before retiring in 2018. She found great joy in the outdoors, especially kayaking, gardening, and birdwatching. Paula had a deep love for animals and cared for horses, goats, chickens, cats, and dogs. She also cherished quiet moments spent reading as well as traveling with friends and family. She cared for and was loved by many close friends and family. Paula was someone characterized by her patience, sense of humor and her compassion for others.

Paula will be deeply missed by her daughter, Jamie Lawrence-Nickels (Ben), and grandchildren; Quinn, Cole, and Clara, as well as two step sons Timothy (Amber) and Greg Lawrence and a bonus son, David Nichols. She also leaves behind five siblings, Lora Lewis Rudd (Chris), Linda Lewis (Iuri Santos), Lance Lewis (Cathy), Debbie Hunter (David), and Tony Carver (Anita) as well as several beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, James T. Lawrence.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 2nd from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Meredith Funeral Home, 179 E. Mulberry Street, Morgantown. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made in Paula’s memory to the Brown County Humane Society, 128 IN-135, Nashville, IN 47448.

Condolences may be shared with the family at meredithfuneral.com.

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