Paula Ackerson

(From Parker Mortuary)

Paula Jean Ackerson, age 67, of Joplin passed away on Monday, September 1, 2025 at Freeman Hospital West.

Paula was born on April 25, 1958 on a military base in Germany to the late union of Lloyd and Erdene (Richardson) Gooch.

Paula was a proud graduate of Carl Junction High School in 1976. She furthered her education and social engagement by joining the Delta Gamma Sorority at Missouri Southern State University, where she formed lifelong bonds and a commitment to community service that would define much of her life. She also took a few classes at Ozark Christian College and learned how to do sign language. 

She met the love of her life, Mike Ackerson, in the 9th grade and together they were inseparable. They were united in holy matrimony on June 16, 1978 at Byers Avenue United Methodist Church. Together they were blessed with 46 years of marriage before Mike’s passing on July 17, 2024. She worked as a secretary at Massey Machine Shop, a business she owned and operated with her late husband. Paula was a lifetime member of Byers Avenue United Methodist Church, helped lead as the president of the women’s groups at the church and served unconditionally in the children’s activities. Paula's love for her family was the most profound of all her interests. She was a beacon of love and stability, always putting the needs of her family above her own.

In addition to her parents, Paula was preceded in death by her infant daughter, Michelle Ackerson.

Paula is survived by her sister, Mary Cummings and husband, Chris; one sister-in-law, Janice Redden and husband, Tim; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, September 4, 2025 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Byers Avenue United Methodist Church.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Byers Avenue United Methodist Church with pastor Chuck Kralik officiating. Interment to follow at Carl Junction Cemetery with Cody Cummings, Colt Cummings, Tyler Lipscomb, Ethan Hatfield, Tyler Beck and Travis Beck serving as pallbearers.

Funeral arrangements are under the special care and direction of Parker Mortuary.