Paula Bonnie Ballinger

August 26, 1950 – December 20, 2025

Paula was born in Pasco, Washington, to Merlene and Paul Schumann, and passed away in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on December 20, 2025.

Paula was later adopted by her beloved parents, Betsy and Howard Ballinger, in 1962. She grew up in Seal Beach, California. She graduated from Marina High School in Huntington Beach, California, in 1968. After high school, she attended Citrus College in Glendora, California, where she earned an Associate of Arts degree.

Paula worked for Lockheed Corporation for nearly 20 years. Afterwards, she worked for many companies, including Xerox and Lorel Science Systems. She had a diverse employment history, from electronics assembly to retail clothing. In the early 1980s, she co-managed the Hotel MacRae on Catalina Island.

Paula was an active and dedicated member of the Laity of her church, Good Samaritan Metropolitan Community Church in Whittier, California. She attended there for many decades.

Paula moved to New Mexico in 2015, first living in Albuquerque. In 2017, she moved to Rio Rancho and began attending Rio Rancho United Methodist Church.

Paula was exceptionally outgoing and friendly to all that met her, whether at church, work, or in any social setting. She always helped her family and was a dedicated friend to many.

I'd like to quote Paula's friend, Laurel:

“Paula is now praising the Lord she loved, and she's a beautiful angel above.”

We all miss you deeply, Paula.