Paula Kristine Vela

It is with broken hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Paula Kristine Vela, 29, on May 25th, 2026. Paula was born on October 12th, 1996, to Viola Zamarripas Vela in Harlingen, Texas.

In loving memory of our sweet Paula, we remember her as a beautiful soul which brought so much love, light, and joy into the lives of everyone around her. She was full of life, laughter, and kindness, always greeting others with a gentle heart and a beautiful smile. Her love was pure, and her presence made the world feel a little softer and brighter. Paula had a God-given way of making people feel welcomed, valued, and loved. Her faith carried her through life with strength and grace, and she lived with a heart rooted deeply in compassion, love, and kindness toward others.

Paula found happiness in the simple things she loved most — making TikToks, calm coloring, building advanced Legos, and spending countless hours doing arts and crafts. She had a creative spirit and a heart that made every moment special. More than anything, she cherished family time, especially the precious moments spent with her nephew, whom she adored. Her family was the center of her world, and she loved fiercely and unconditionally. Paula treasured every gathering, every laugh shared, every conversation, and every memory made with those closest to her.  One of her favorite past times was Lyford Bulldog and Lady Bulldog games, events and performances.  She was a devoted fan and always cheered loudly for her beloved alma mater.  Her Lyford Bulldog pride ran deep, and she found so much joy in standing alongside our Bulldog Family, that she loved so dearly. Whether in the stands, surrounded by loved ones, or simply sharing in the excitement of Friday night lights, Paula’s spirit and love for her hometown community always shined brightly.

Paula’s love extended far beyond herself. She cared deeply for her friends, her neighbors, and everyone who was blessed to know her. She had a servant’s heart and a beautiful way of lifting others up through encouragement, laughter, and simple acts of love. Her faith in God gave her comfort, hope, and peace, and we now share in that peace, knowing she is now wrapped safely in His eternal embrace.

Although Paula’s time here was far too short, the memories she created and the love she gave will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will always be remembered for her sweet hugs, unique spirit, unwavering love for others, and the happiness she shared so freely.

A little bit of our sunshine has been dimmed, but our night sky has a new shining star. Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we take comfort in knowing that Heaven gained a beautiful angel, and that Paula now rests peacefully in the loving arms of our Lord and Savior. Her light will continue to shine through the countless lives she touched, and her love will remain with us forever.

May she rest peacefully in eternal love and grace.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever our angel.

She is survived by her Mother Viola Zamarripas Vela, brothers John David Vela, Benjamin Ray Vela (Criselda), Nephew Benjamin Ray Vela II, Grandparents Ramiro and Maria Vela. Along with many other family and countless friends who will sadly miss her.

She is preceded in death by her grandparents Abraham and Paula Zamarripas and her beloved Uncle Gilbert “Piva” Ramirez.

Service will be held on Saturday May 30th, 2026, at 3pm at Good Shepherd Funeral Home.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the caring hands of Good Shepard Funeral Home, 1157 W. Hidalgo Avenue, Raymondville Texas 78580.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Paula Kristine Vela, please visit our floral store.