Remembering Paula Cundiff: A Life of Compassion and Service

Paula Gene Young Cundiff, aged 79, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2025, in Lehi, Utah. Born on August 15, 1946, in Denton, Texas, she was the only child of Nancy G. McSpadden Young and Paul Eugene Young, Jr. Her life was marked by deep connections with family, a passion for service, and a profound love for animals.

Cundiff grew up in Denton, where she graduated from Denton High School before continuing her education at the University of North Texas. Throughout her life, she resided in various Texas cities, including Plano, Sanger, Granbury, and Nacogdoches. In 2017, Cundiff moved to San Francisco, California, with her family, and later relocated to Lehi in 2021.

Her professional journey culminated in 2005 when she retired after serving for 16 years as the Administrative Assistant to the Accounting Department at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches. Cundiff was also a long-time member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Nacogdoches, where she actively contributed to her community.

Cundiff’s dedication to animals was a defining aspect of her life. She was known for her caring nature towards numerous pets, including cats, dogs, ferrets, and even generations of raccoons that found refuge on her back porch during the cold winters in Nacogdoches. Her love and kindness extended beyond her family and friends to all creatures great and small.

In her personal life, she married her junior high sweetheart, John E. Cundiff, in 1965. They were together until 1983 and had two children, Cami Shey and Chad Alexander. Tragically, her life was marked by the heartbreak of losing her son, Chad, who passed away at the age of 12 in 1991. Despite this profound loss, Cundiff remained resilient and continued to nurture her family.

She is survived by her daughter Cami, her son-in-law Ben, and her grandchildren Sienna, Anastasia, Noah, and William. Additionally, her cousin Corry McSpadden from Meeker, Oklahoma, mourns her passing.

Paula Cundiff’s life was a testament to compassion, service, and the enduring bonds of family. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and love that will be remembered by all who knew her. Friends and family may leave condolences online at www.mulkeybowlesmontgomery.com.