Paula Jean Hallenberg

Paula Jean Hallenberg, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and cherished member of the Maryville community, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 6th, 2026, just days shy of her 77th birthday. Born on February 10th, 1949, in Maryville, MO, Paula spent her entire adult life in the town she loved, impacting the lives of hundreds of children over the years at Eugene Field Elementary School.

Paula was a dedicated educator, having devoted 30 years to the Maryville R-II Schools. She began her career as an elementary teacher and later embraced the role of librarian, where she shared her passion for reading and learning with countless students. Paula's love for literature was evident in her academic pursuits, having studied Library Sciences and English at Northwest Missouri State University.

A woman of many talents, Paula was an avid reader, singer, songwriter, and storyteller. She found joy in writing stories, photographing flowers, birds, and scenic landscapes, and studying her family's ancestry. Her love for animals and nature was profound, and she was a member of the Eastern Star. Above all, Paula cherished her role as a mother and grandmother, finding immense joy in her family.

Paula is survived by her devoted husband, Richard "Rich" Hallenberg of Maryville, MO; her son, Matt Hallenberg and his wife Tia of McCloud, KS; her daughter, Amy Hallenberg of Maryville, MO; and her four beloved grandchildren, Tucker, Cooper, Parker, and Sawyer Hallenberg. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Estle Humphrey.

A funeral service to celebrate Paula's life will be held at Bram Funeral Home in Maryville, MO, on Tuesday, February 10th, 2026, at 11:00 am. Pallbearers will include Matt Hallenberg, Tucker Hallenberg, Cooper Hallenberg, Matt Blackney, and Travis Starcher. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery, Maryville, MO.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to The New Nodaway County Humane Society, reflecting Paula's love for animals. 

Arrangements are under the care of Bram Funeral Home. Paula's legacy of love, learning, and laughter will forever be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing her.