Paula J. Hedges, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at her home in Lawrence, Kansas, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. She was 67.
Paula was born on April 6, 1958, in Frontenac, Kansas, to Francis and Betty Wolownik. From an early age, she was known for her warmth, resilience, and her deep devotion to family.
She married the love of her life, Scott Hedges. Together they shared a marriage filled with devotion, laughter, and partnership. Side by side, they co-owned and operated a property management company, building both a business and a life grounded in hard work, dedication, and love. Their commitment to each other and to their family was evident in everything they did.
Paula especially cherished her role as “Grandma.” She adored spending time with Ethan, Hunter, and Opal, celebrating their milestones and showering them with love and encouragement. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she took immense pride in each of them. Paula dearly loved each of her children and family members, and her devotion to them was the cornerstone of her life.
She is survived by her children Anna, Kayla, and Michael and his wife Lynsi; her cherished grandchildren Ethan, Hunter, and Opal; her brother Michael Wolownik and his wife Stacy; her sister Marianne Armagost and her husband Roger; and Scott’s family, including his mother Yvonne Hedges, siblings Laura Burney and her husband Frank, Bryan Hedges and his wife Laura, and Blake Hedges and his wife Kris and their families, including many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Scott Hedges, and her parents, Francis and Betty Wolownik.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial contributions be directed to the educational fund of Paula’s beloved grandchildren, Ethan, Hunter, and Opal. Please consider honoring her legacy by supporting their future. Contributions may be made through the family’s GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/aedbf4c49.
Visitation will begin at 10 am, with a rosary being prayed at 10:30 am, followed by funeral services at 11am all at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home on Friday, September 26, 2025. Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery.
Paula will be remembered for her unwavering love, her generous spirit, and the countless ways she brought comfort and joy to those around her.
9/25/25
Although I just knew Paula since 2015, it feels like I knew her for much longer. She was a direct but very warm person. I respected her. I will miss her greatly. Barbara Girard
I am thinking of you all during this time of loss. I knew Paula from PSU and would see her occasionally in Lawrence. I always enjoyed seeing her.
Dear Yvonne, Kayla and the rest of the Hedges extended family
Paula was a lovely lady, good businesswoman and great mom, sister, grandmom, friend, niece, and so on. You will miss her, I know, but she will live on in the hearts and memories of those who knew her. I’m thinking of all of you and sending you hope and healing. Grateful that Paula’s suffering is over.
With love, Chris Lane
We are so sorry for your loss.
Sending my deepest condolences, love and prayers to the family at this time.
A great loss. Paula graciously shared her daughter and her husband for our music endeavors. And after Scott’s passing, shared Kayla with me. I found that such a testament to her grace and kindness.