Paula Hendrickson

Paula Hendrickson, a beloved daughter, devoted partner, cherished mother to Anthony, and grandmother, and a friend to many, passed away on August 25, 2026. Born on June 19, 1969, in Houston, Texas, Paula was the beacon of light and laughter to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Paula was the daughter of Cyndy Connor Turner and the late Norman Connor Jr. She was preceded in death by her father, her brothers Patrick Connor, Norman Connor, and her grandparents Norman and Helen Connor and Maryann Williams. Her late ex-husband, Victor Hendrickson, along with Gina Connor, also predeceased her. Despite these losses, Paula's life was filled with love and joy, shared with her surviving mother, Cyndy Turner, and her fiancé, Troy Barnett, who brought new love and happiness into her life over the past four years. She was a proud graduate of Humble High School, and her career was dedicated to nurturing and guiding children as a school bus driver for over two decades. Paula's mission was always about "her kids" on the bus, and she left an indelible mark on every child she met with her warmth and care. Paula's life was filled with music, a passion that began at the tender age of five when she proclaimed her desire to "sing for Jesus." Antiquing, reading, and cooking were among her favorite pastimes, and she was known for her quick wit and infectious laughter that could light up any room. Her family, including Troy's children and her own daughter in law, Wendy Smith, along with her beloved grandchildren, Weldon, Waylon, Rowdy, Lacey, Christopher, Timothy, and Jason McWilliams, were the center of her world. Paula also leaves behind a close-knit circle of friends, Jeannie and Joel Massey, and Janelle Ebans and her family, who will dearly miss her vibrant presence. Her cousins, Anthony, Carol Ann, Alex, Josh, Matthew, Mickey, Ronnie, Tim Connor, Angie, and Shirley, will remember her fondly. A service to celebrate Paula's remarkable life will be held on September 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Rios Funeral Home in New Caney, Texas. The address is 21036 Loop 494, 77357. Paula Hendrickson's legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will forever be cherished by all who were blessed to know her. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift those she leaves behind.