Paula Espinoza Wofford

Paula Espinoza Wofford was born on August 5, 1956, in St. Ignatius to Nadine and Pablo Espinoza. She passed away on November 28, 2024. Paula was known by everyone for her caring heart and easy laugh. She had an unmatched ability for hospitality and comfort, there was always room for you at her table with no limitations. She was the absolute picture of love, kindness, fun, and integrity. Even in the hardest times, she put others first. She was brilliant and fiercely independent but loved sharing her life with her family. 

Paula grew up in Arlee surrounded by family. She loved to recall memories of adventuring with her siblings and cousins. As an Arlee Scarlet she was a member of the first girls' basketball team and was a graduate of Western Montana College, the first in her family to get a college degree. She was never afraid of a challenge or hard work. Most of all she enjoyed life and the simple pleasures that it brought.

While working at Trapper Creek Job Corps, she met her husband, Prentis Wofford. They lived in Corvallis, raising their family. There was nothing that she loved more than being a mom and taking care of her children and grandchildren. She was always cheering them on at sporting events and chaperoning field trips. She was the team and community mom. She kept a pantry stocked with treats and home canned goods. Her house was magical during Christmas, and she had an amazing garden. She moved back to Arlee to take care of her mother and be surrounded by her extended family. It made her happy to be back where she had many memories of loved ones and be connected with her tribe. 

Paula held many positions over the years at the Bitterroot National Forest, Montana DNRC, and CSKT Head Start and was always the “go-to” person in the office. One of her favorite memories was being on the Capitol Christmas Tree team in 2008, driving through the country representing Montana and the Bitterroot.

Paula survived a brain aneurysm in November 2023 and although she had to overcome many obstacles, she never lost her faith. She believed in the power of prayer and knew that she was always cared for by her Lord and Savior. While in recovery and therapy, she was a favorite patient because of her gentle and fun demeanor. She worked hard so that she could hold her new grandbaby, which she did. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Nadine and Pablo Espinoza, her brother Chib Espinoza, and many cherished aunts and uncles. 

She is survived by her husband, Prentis Wofford, children, Caleb (Nicole) Wofford, Heather Wofford, Doak (Terri) Wofford, Shawn (Dawn) Wofford, grandchildren, Brooke Wofford, Falon (Nate) Decker, Rio Wofford, Ella Wofford, Evelyn Wofford, great-grandchildren Landon Izatt, Emma Decker, her sisters, Loretta (Gregg) Willoughby, Donnetta (Dave) Stephan, aunt, Lolita (Drew) Hendrickson, cousin, Charlie Hanson, and many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews. 

A day will never go by that her family does not miss or think about her. She will always be remembered and loved. There will be a service in her honor on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 1pm at the Arlee Community Center. 

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Arlee School District. Paula was an avid supporter of the school and students.

Donadagohvi.