Obituaries

Paula Denise Wilder, 67, passed away August 24th, 2025 in Edgewood, Kentucky.

She was born to Pauline and Bill Gene Wilder on September 12th, 1957 in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Affectionately known as Paula to family, and Denise to co-workers and friends, she was loved by all. Known for her calm spirit and nurturing nature, Paula spent her life serving others. After graduating from Jewish Hospital's Nursing program in 1982, she worked for Booth Hospital (St. Luke's) and St. Elizabeth's. She was a Labor and Delivery nurse, who helped usher new lives into the world. She was also there to comfort grieving mothers. She was a member of the United States Navy, serving as a nurse in San Diego and later in the Philippines.

Paula was many things - a foster mother, who later adopted a son. She was a lover of both cats and dogs. A member of Hebron Baptist Church. A wonderful caretaker to her mother. A spectacular sister. An amazing aunt. And a friend to all.

Paula was preceded in death by her mother, father, grandparents, and beloved sister-in-law, Winnie Johnson Wilder. She leaves behind her son, Marcus Samuel; brothers Bill Wilder, Randy (Penny) Wilder, Roy (Gina) Wilder; niece, Jen Wilder; nephews Cameron (Geri) Wilder, John (Lindsey) Wilder, as well great-nephews and nieces. Close friends, Sandy Mersch and Pat Gibson, as well as an array of others. Her dog, Oliver, had a very special place in her heart.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, September 27th from 12pm-2pm at the Moose Lodge in Taylor Mill. The Northern Kentucky Nurse's Honor Guard will conduct a tribute at 12:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the St. Elizabeth Cancer Center Program or the Boone County Animal Care Services.