Paula Jean Winston

Paula Winston was born June 7, 1959 in Colorado Springs, CO and passed away January 31, 2026 in Barrington, IL leaving a legacy of compassion, service and deep love for family, friends and community.

She spent most of her childhood in St. Joseph, MO where her strong values and lifelong dedication to helping others were formed. During her career, she resided in Tampa, FL, Atlanta, GA, Scottsdale, AZ and most recently, Crystal Lake.

Paula was the beloved daughter of the late Walter Winston and Joyce Winston who currently resides in Scottsdale, AZ. She is also survived by her brother, Bruce (Sarah) Winston, of Crystal Lake; Niece, Morgan (Cameron) Campbell, of Wabash, IN and their two children. She was especially fond of her Aunts and Uncles and Cousins, Pam, Brad, Brian, Jonica, Barry, Chad, Angela, Karen and the late Mike. Her many, many friends enriched her life.

Paula studied Criminal Justice and Social Work at Culver Stockton College and later earned an Associate Degree in Business and Marketing from

Missouri Western State. Paula devoted much of her professional life to helping others. She worked as a Prevention Specialist and Social Worker at Pioneer Center for Human Services in McHenry, IL. She was a Certified QPR Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Trainer and a Youth and Young Adult Mentor with Big Brothers/Big Sisters in Atlanta, GA. In addition to her social services work, she enjoyed working in retail as a part-time Sales Associate at Talbots and J. Crew.

Paula loved sports, especially football, and was a devoted Seattle Seahawks fan. Above all, she will be remembered for her kindness, generous heart, and unwavering dedication to helping others. Her compassion and love will continue to live on in the many lives she touched.

A Celebration of Life is planned for a later date.