Paula (Dickerhoff) Cottom July 7, 1956 - August 29, 2025 Paula Cottom, née Dickerhoff, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2025, at the age of 69. A lifelong resident of St. Louis, Paula was born on July 7, 1956, to Donald and Patricia (Happel) Dickerhoff. She grew up in St. Louis Hills and attended Ascension Lutheran Grade School before graduating from Lutheran South High School in 1974. Paula faithfully dedicated almost 48 years of her life to public service as a Senior Communications Officer with the Sunset Hills Police Department. Her commitment, professionalism, dedication, and compassion earned her numerous awards and commendations throughout her distinguished career. She was deeply respected by her colleagues and the community she served. Beyond her work, Paula was known for her warmth, generosity, and exceptional cooking. She found joy in being with her family and friends and always spreading love, positively laughter, and kindness to others. She was the most selfless, compassionate, caring, loyal person that impacted so many lives. She loved preparing meals for her family and friends and helping anyone she could, and creating lasting memories. She never passed up an opportunity to try to brighten someones day or show kindness and generosity no matter whether she knew them or not. Her greatest pride and priority was her daughter, Kayla and she poured her heart into every moment they shared. Paula is survived by her daughter Kayla Cottom (Corey Work) her step-grandchildren, Jacob, Colton, and Nicolette (Nicky),; her sister Donna P. Dickerhoff; her brothers Scott (Beth) Dickerhoff and Kurt (Donna) Dickerhoff; and many nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her love and happy memories together. Her legacy of service, kindness, love, and devotion to her family, friends, and community will live on in the lives she touched and the memories will forever be cherished, honored, and remembered 38 143PWS I love you, Mom...