Paula Woody Varner, 72, of Indiana, Pennsylvania, passed away on October 22, 2026.
Born on June 4, 1954, in Conemaugh, Pennsylvania, Paula was the daughter of Ellwood Varner Sr. and Adeline (Hallow) Varner. She graduated from Purchase Line High School in 1972 and went on to earn a degree in physical education from Slippery Rock University in 1976.
Following graduation, Paula worked as a substitute teacher in schools throughout the area. She also worked part-time as a sports writer and spent time caring for her niece and nephew. She later became the editor of the Mainline newspaper, a position she held until her retirement.
Paula enjoyed her retirement alongside her life partner, Lori. They shared a love of dining out at their favorite restaurants and enjoying sporting events. Paula and Lori shared a love of animals, adopting and caring for many cats throughout their lifetime together. Paula also cherished her close relationship with her niece and nephew and remained a constant presence in their lives. She will be fondly remembered for her sense of humor, straightforward nature, and no-nonsense attitude.
Paula was preceded in death by her parents, Ellwood Varner Sr. and Adeline Varner; her sisters, Adelyn Varner and Renee (Varner) Lash; her brother Ellwood Varner, Jr.; and her life partner Kay “Lori” Nulph.
She is survived by her nephew, Alex Lash, and his wife, Tomoyo, and their daughter, Ayano, of Tacoma, Washington; her niece, Andrea Lash, and her fiancé, Jonathan Hansotte, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and her brother-in-law, Joseph Lash, of Indiana, Pennsylvania.
In accordance with Paula’s wishes, no funeral service will be held. Arrangements are with the assistance of the Rairigh Funeral Home, Ltd. in Hillsdale, PA.
Visit www.rairighfh.com to sign Paula’s guestbook and share a condolence message.
