Paula Dean Gunter

Paula Dean Cannon Gunter, 75, of Gilbert, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Born in Parrish, Florida, Paula was the daughter of the late William Paul Cannon and Ethel Dean Parrish Cannon. She dedicated 22 years of service as a beloved school bus driver for Lexington School District 1 in Gilbert. Paula had a deep love for horses and cats, and she enjoyed spending her days watching old westerns and soap operas. One of her greatest joys was traveling to Florida to visit her family whenever she had the opportunity.

Paula is survived by her devoted husband of 35 years, David E. Gunter; children, Byron P. “B.P.” Gunter and Deana P. Cartagena (Ivan); her stepdaughter, Andrea Nicole “Nikki” Smith (Eugene); and step-grandchildren, Kristin and Devon Gunter. She is also remembered fondly by many extended family members. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her stepson, David Gunter II, “Davy.”

A graveside service celebrating Paula’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 28th, at Oak Grove Baptist Church Cemetery, 533 Hayride Road, Gilbert, SC 29054, with Reverend Dennis Metts officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 27th, at Milton Shealy Funeral Home. Active pallbearers will be: Mark Bouknight, Logan Bouknight, Roscoe Corder, Bubba Corder, Tim Wood, and Travis Rentz.