Mrs. Paula Royal peacefully passed away on Saturday, May 16, 2026. She was born in High Point, NC. on June 27, 1953, to the late Lex McCullough, Sr., and Bertha Pemberton McCullough. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her two brothers, Lex McCullough, Jr., and Larry D. McCullough, two special friends, Rose Chavis and Annette Rawlinson Harris, and other relatives and friends.

Paula graduated from T. Wingate Andrew High School. She was an active and dedicated member of Williams Memorial CME Church, where she served as an Associate Minister. Additionally, she served on the Steward Board, the Sunday School Ministry, the Children's Ministry, and various other boards and committees.

She was employed at Adams Millis Hosiery Mill for 19 years and retired from Ralph Lauren after another 26 years. She was actively involved in her community, participating in local events, working at the voting polls, and assisting with activities for senior citizens. Her dedication to these endeavors reflected her deep love for the community and its members.

On August 1, 1987, she joyfully united in marriage with Larry Royal, embarking on a beautiful journey filled with love and companionship. Throughout the years they shared together, she fully embraced her many roles as a devoted wife, a loving mother, adoring grandmother, a caring sister, and a loyal and supportive friend to many. In her leisure time, she found immense joy in tending to her flowers and gardening, traveling, and simply enjoying life. With an unwavering spirit and a strong sense of purpose, she left a deep and lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to have known her.

Paula's legacy is one of courage, compassion, and authenticity. Though she is no longer with us in body, her profound influence, her invaluable lessons, and her boundless love will live on in the hearts of those she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Paula is survived by her husband of thirty-eight years, Larry Royal, who resides at their home. She is also remembered by her children: Jeremy A. Royal, Erik Steed Royal, and Tiffany Royal. Her grandchildren include McKenzie Royal, Taylor Royal, Andrea J. Kennedy, and Autumn Kennedy, as well as her great-grandchild, Khalil McLucas. Paula had a close bond with her sister, Saundra McCullough-Cobey (Benny) from Clayton, NC, and she is also remembered by her sister-in-law, Ernestine McCullough of High Point, NC. Additionally, she is survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends who will cherish her memory.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at Williams Memorial CME Church, 3400 Triangle Lake Road. The family will receive friends at the church from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. and other times at the home from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Interment will be private. Mrs. Royal may be viewed on Friday, May 22, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Service Chapel.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.