Paula Louise Bray

Paula Louise Bray, age 60, passed away peacefully in the loving arms of her daughter, Chelcy, on Monday, January 19, 2026, in Louisville, Kentucky. Paula was born on June 8, 1965, in New Castle, Indiana, to the late Paul Bray and Lola Bray (Herndon). Paula had a gentle, compassionate heart and a free spirit. She found joy and peace in gardening, especially tending to flowers, with the Oriental lily being her favorite. She also enjoyed writing, reading, music, and cooking, but nothing brought her greater fulfillment than being a mother. Paula shared many years of her life with Kevin McNelis, and together they welcomed three children who became the center of her world. Her dream of motherhood was realized in 1988 with the birth of her first daughter, Chelcy McNelis. In 1991, she welcomed her second daughter, Quincey Caldwell (McNelis), and in 2002, her son, Joseph McNelis. Paula is survived by all three of her children, whom she loved deeply and unconditionally. Paula devoted herself to raising her children in Wilbur, Indiana, instilling in them the same kindness and compassion that lived in her. She filled their home with warmth, care, and quiet strength. She expressed her love through simple, meaningful acts—reading to them, preparing meals, and always offering comfort and encouragement. She often said that raising her children was her greatest joy and proudest accomplishment. A woman of perseverance and faith, Paula remained strong and continued to grow spiritually even as she faced increasing challenges due to complications from a recurring meningioma. She will be remembered for her kindness, her compassion, and the deep pride she carried in being a mother. In addition to her children, Paula is survived by her grandchild, Roman McNelis; her siblings, Susan Otte (Bray), Karen Bray, Sherry Winchester (Bray), and Thomas Bray; and many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews, whom she loved dearly and spoke of often. Following her cremation, there will be a time of gathering from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Sproles Family Funeral Home in New Castle, Indiana, with a memorial service to celebrate Paula’s life beginning at 4:00 p.m. Paula will be laid to rest at South Mound Cemetery at a later date. You may offer the family a personal condolence at www.sprolesfamilycares.com.

Tributes

Paula Louise Bray

June 8, 1965 - January 19, 2026