Paula Jean (Franklin) Barchenger, born July 11, 1947, in Poteau, Ok to Julian Dale Franklin and Syble (Bullard) Franklin of Heavener, Ok. Paula grew up in Heavener along with her two brothers, Ira Dale (Buddy) Franklin and Charles Allen (Chuck) Franklin. She attended Southeastern State University, Kiamichi Vo-Tech & Greater Tulsa Board of Realtors.

On April 12, 1975, Paula gave birth to daughter Kimberly R. Tinsley. She married Richard Barchenger of Claremore on January 30th, 1982. Upon marriage to Richard, she extended her family, son Richard Brian Barchenger and daughter-in-law Clairese Barchenger, Son First Sargent James Craig Barchenger, and son Roger Wesley Barchenger. Paula has been blessed with seven grandchildren, Aaron, Erica, Cody, Courtney, Brody, Wendy, Daniel & Eli. Her great-grandson is expected in June 2026, Baker James. Paula’s family included many cousins, sisters and brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, and their children from Franklin, Bullard, and Barchenger families. In the past few years, she made it a point to visit as many family members as possible and reconnect.

 Paula was a retired Nurse, Real Estate Broker and Florist. She loved planting flowers in her garden; Stargazer lilies were her favorite. She was an exceptional seamstress and quilter. She enjoyed attending tradeshows and selling her quilts, canned jellies, and peppers. Indian art and folklore were a passion of interest she enjoyed exploring with Richard as well as old western movies. Her favorite place to visit is the Kiamichi Mountain area. One of the greatest inspirations in her life was her father, Dale Franklin. Having her daughter was a significant accomplishment in her life. Paula and Richard proudly support the men and women of the US military.

Paula Jean, passed on Monday, April 13th, 2026, at the age of 78, at her home in Claremore, OK.

Visitation will be Monday, April 20, 2026, from 4pm-7pm at Green Hill Funeral Home 9901 N. Owasso Expressway, Owasso, Ok 74055.

 Grave side services will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery 310 So. Nome, Claremore, OK on Tuesday, April 21st, 2026, at 10:30am.

A celebration of life in honor of Paula will proceed after the service at Main Street Tavern, 116 N Missouri Ave, Claremore, Ok.

 Please consider donating to Wounded Warrior Project www.woundedworriorproject.org or St. Labre Indian School www.stlabre.org in Paula’s honor, in leu of flowers.