Paula Denise Mitchell, age 71, passed away surrounded by the love of family and friends. Born on April 24, 1955, in Bessemer, Alabama, Denise moved to California at a young age, where she attended Venice High School, participated in the Job Corps program, and met her first husband, Reginald Campa. Together they welcomed two daughters, Paula and Kimberly. Denise built a successful career as a Data Entry Information Manager with Richards Surgical Instruments while raising her family. Following Reginald's untimely passing, she later married Ray Cervantes Torres, and together they welcomed twin daughters, Vanessa and Manuela. Denise continued her education at El Camino College, earning a certification in Early Childhood Education before eventually returning home to Central Alabama.

Back in Alabama, Denise established deep roots and formed countless friendships that became family. A dedicated and hardworking woman, she served as a volunteer CASA Worker for Shelby County and later worked at Citation Foam and Bill's Dollar Store until her retirement. Denise was the embodiment of grit, determination, and resilience. As a single mother raising four daughters, she faced life's challenges with strength, tenacity, and unwavering faith. A devoted Christian, her favorite hymn, "The Old Rugged Cross," reflected the faith that guided her throughout her life.

Denise will be remembered for her infectious smile, unmistakable laugh, impeccable style, beautiful hair, and spirited personality. She was both a lover and a fighter—strong-willed, feisty, and fiercely devoted to those she loved. She enjoyed music, dancing, fishing, road trips, and spending time at the beach she cherished from her California upbringing. She loved Mexican food, a good margarita, all things chocolate, and never missed an opportunity to make her weekly calls to her Mama and Daddy. She had a special appreciation for Native culture and heritage and treasured the large Alabama family she held so close to her heart. Known affectionately as "Half-Pint" by her younger brother Ducky, Denise shared especially close bonds with her brothers, sister, beloved cousin Connie, and many cousins and extended family members. She adored her sons-in-law and welcomed them as her own. Her love for family, loyal friendships, generous heart, and unwavering spirit defined her life.

During the final years of her life, Denise resided in Chilton County at Hatley Health Care, where she was deeply loved, spoiled, adored, and pampered by the compassionate and hardworking staff who became an extension of her family.

Denise was preceded in death by her father, Billy Mitchell; her mother, Chloe Mitchell; her husband, Reginald Campa; her sister, Sherry Dickerson; and her brothers, Dennis and Kenneth Agnew. She is survived by her daughters, Paula Bloom (Patrick), Kimberly Campa, Vanessa Torres Lawley (Brandon), and Manuela Torres Smith (James); her grandchildren,

Matt Bloom, Natalie Bloom, RJ Bloom, Brannon Lawley, Jameson Smith, Jamilynn Smith, and Jamie Smith; along with numerous cousins, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were forever enriched by knowing her.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at Schaudt's Funeral Home in Okmulgee, OK.

Friends will be received starting at 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 26, 2026 at Schaudt's Funeral Home in Okmulgee, OK.

Graveside services to follow in Okmulgee Cemetery.