Obituary of Paula Jeanne Harman Raynar

A Good Life, A Good Wife

Paula Jeanne Harman Raynar, beloved wife of Karl and loving mother to John and Laurel, departed this life on May 19, 2021 in State College, Pennsylvania.

She married Karl Allan Raynar of Jamestown, Rhode Island at her parent's farm in Franklin, West Virginia on June 23, 1973. Paula leaves behind her lifelong partner of 48 years, Karl, and three children, Christie Lee, who died at birth, John Carl and Laurel Marie. Her six grandchildren, Peceli, Carina, John, Zelene, Bryce and Daniel will remember her as Nana. Paula is also survived by her brother John and her sister Zelene.

Paula was born on October 11, 1948 to John and Pauline Harman of Franklin, West Virginia. Growing up in Pendleton County, Paula took an early role in community service and helping others. She was active in 4H and horseback riding throughout her youth. After graduating from Franklin High School in 1966, Paula attended Potomac State College a branch campus of West Virginia University where she graduated with a Bachelor's degree in journalism and education. She later went on to teach journalism and French at high schools in Keyser and Franklin, West Virginia.

While raising her family in Texas, Paula earned her Master's degree in Counseling from North Texas University.

Paula devoted twenty-five years to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, providing family counseling and financial assistance, until she retired in 2014. She was a strong advocate for her clients and was known by her family as "Our Lady of Righteous Indignation".

She spent her retirement years pursuing her love of rail travel, gardening and doting on her grandchildren. Paula and Karl enjoyed hiking and cycling. They had just completed a tour of the Erie Canal. When not otherwise engaged, Paula could be found curled up with a good book.

Paula was an energetic soul and devoted her many talents to volunteer work in the communities in which she resided; they included St. Vincent de Paul, Out-of-the-Cold, and PAWS. She was a member of Good Shepherd Catholic Church where she was active with the Matthew 25 Group. Paula was a proud member of the South Branch Valley Daughters of the American Revolution in her home town of Franklin, West Virginia.

Visiting hours will be held at Good Shepherd Catholic Church Friday, May 21 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. A memorial service will be held at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Saturday, May 22 at 1 p.m.

Memorial donations may be made to Catholic Charities, 1300 12th Ave, Altoona, PA 16601 or Matthew 25, Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 867 Gray's Woods Blvd., Port Matilda, PA 16870.

Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com or visit us on Facebook.