Paula Lipps-Darnell

June 2, 1945 – May 29, 2026

Paula Lipps-Darnell, age 80, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 29, 2026.

Born on June 2, 1945, in Middletown, Ohio, Paula lived a life defined by faith, compassion, service, and love for others. She was a woman whose heart was always open to those in need, and whose greatest joy came from helping others.

Paula's educational journey continued beyond high school as she pursued additional college studies and became proficient in shorthand. Throughout her life, she held many roles and accomplished many goals. She was recognized as a top sales representative while selling meat products for a popular Las Vegas company and later worked in cable sales. She also owned and operated her own business and dedicated many years to serving the community through her work with the Chamber of Commerce.

One of Paula's greatest callings was caring for others. She opened both her heart and her home to individuals who could no longer care for themselves, providing comfort, dignity, and companionship during their final days. Her compassion extended far beyond her family, touching countless lives throughout her community.

Earlier in life, Paula served as a softball coach and drove a school bus while living in Franklin, Ohio. She enjoyed encouraging and mentoring young people and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Paula's love for music was evident throughout her entire life. Gospel music was especially dear to her heart, and she faithfully sang in churches throughout the Las Vegas Valley, at the Salvation Army, and at the Rescue Mission. Singing alongside her adopted daughter and best friend, Carleena, brought her tremendous joy. Through music, Paula shared her faith and uplifted the hearts of many.

She also had a deep concern for those experiencing hardship and often spent time feeding the homeless and ministering to those in need. Her life reflected the belief that kindness should be shown through action.

Paula was preceded in death by her mother, Pauline Swope; her sister, Nancy Callahan; her husband, Robert C. Lipps Sr.; her sons-in-law, Renard Lawson Sr. and William Rodriguez Jr.; and her nephews, Thomas Grissom and Billy Callahan.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 24 years, Gerald T. Darnell; her daughters, Karen Lawson, Ivie Adams (Tyrice Adams), and her adopted daughter, Carleena Shumway. She also leaves behind her beloved siblings, Joe & Diane Grissom, and Cheryl Rhymer.

Paula's greatest treasure was her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren: Shawn Hensler, Tanika Saiz, Seline Betances, Tyrisha Adams, Tyrice Adams Jr., Tyree Q. Adams, and Tai Adams.

She was also blessed with numerous great-grandchildren: Mason Lenhart, Joshua Saiz, Anaiyah Saiz, Michael Saiz Jr., Serenitie Adams, Kail Adams, Tyrice Adams III, Syreese Adams, Zyree Adams, Ramond Criego, Brandon Savoy, and Tyson Savoy.

Paula is further survived by her nieces and nephews: Gail (Mike) Davis, Denice (Bob) Bauer, Amy Rothert, Alicia (Joe) Felix, Kendra (Ronnie) Wilson, Joey Childress, and many great-nieces and great-nephews whom she loved dearly.

She also leaves behind many cherished friends, including Dottie McCollum, Louise Pittman, Sandy Boyd and Joe, Andi Motolo, Shannon Nickels, Fran Cole, Chris and Richard Warner, and Brenda DeHart. She was preceded in death by several dear friends, including Richard McCollum, Pastor Vince Motolo, and Linda Jones.

Paula will be remembered for her beautiful smile, generous spirit, unwavering faith, and willingness to help anyone in need. Her legacy of service, compassion, and love will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Fervent Church, 4295 North Rancho Drive, Las Vegas, Nevada 89130.

Though she is no longer with us in body, Paula's love, faith, and kindness will live on forever in the hearts of her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.