Ida Pauletta Caldwell, age 80, of Wallins, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 29, 2023, while at the Harlan Appalachian Regional Hospital. Pauletta was born in Bell County, KY, on November 1, 1942, to Paul and Zelphia (Caldwell) Caldwell.

In her younger years, Pauletta's family moved to Wallins and she graduated from Wallins High School. She went on to become a dental assistant and worked many years for Dr. Ausmus at his Harlan dental office. She also lovingly served the residents of The Laurel's, an assisted living community, for several years. Her pleasant, easy-going nature was a perfect fit for her work.

Pauletta loved life, enjoyed talking with anyone who could spare a minute, and was perpetually happy. She was a homebody who enjoyed needlepoint, sewing, and crocheting. And although she was happy by nature, she always 'called it like she saw it', full of honesty. Pauletta loved being with her family and although she never married and had no children of her own, she was a second momma to her nieces and nephews and a second grandmother to their children. When Pauletta's parents passed, she became the sole caregiver for her brother Hurlas and the two have been as thick as thieves since then. Even when Pauletta took residence at the Harlan Nursing and Rehab Facility, Hurlas checked himself in, also, and the two have been roommates until her passing. She was a member of the Wallins Pentecostal Church and enjoyed attending when she was able.

Pauletta was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Zelphia Caldwell; her brother, Shadie Caldwell; her nephew, Tony Caldwell; and a great-nephew, Grayson May.

Left to cherish her memory is her brother, Hurlas Caldwell; her sister-in-law and best friend, Helen Caldwell; nephew, Johnny Caldwell; nieces, Missy Hendrickson and Shannon Short; five great-nephews: Anthony, Alex, Tristan, Ethan, and Matthew; 4 great-great nieces and nephew: Jackson, Hailey, Harper, and Heidi; as well as a host of extended family and many dear friends.

A gathering of family and friends for Miss Pauletta will be held July 15, 2023, from 2:00-4:00pm in the chapel of Harlan Funeral Home with her memorial service beginning at 4:00. Her final resting place will be beside her parents at the Harlan County Memorial Gardens in Tremont, KY.

Harlan Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Ms. Pauletta Caldwell.