Debra Jean Pauly, 72, of Viola, passed away Monday, July 28, 2025, at Ascension Via Christi- St. Teresa, Wichita.

She was born July 2, 1953, at Wellington, to Monta Gordon Benge and Elizabeth Mae (Sones) Benge. Debra grew up in Conway Springs where she attended Conway Springs public schools. She graduated from Conway Springs High School with the class of 1971.

Debra was united in marriage to Earl Pauly, Jr. on Dec. 9, 1972, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Conway Springs and to this union three children were born, Monica, Adam and Nicole. The family made their home east of Viola.

Debra worked for Sumner County Health Department as a home health nurse for more than 20 years. She retired in 2015.

Debra was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Melvin Benge, Ilene Woods, Virginia Wilcox, Shirley Tarrant, Beverly Zoglmann, Donna Cook and an infant sister.

Debra is survived by her children, Monica Halsey (Jesse) of Clearwater, Adam Pauly (Lindsay) of Conway Springs, and Nicole Friess (Jared) of Conway Springs; companion, Jim Ternes; one brother, Terry Benge of Conway Springs; one sister, Sharon Carter of Olathe; five grandchildren, Nathan and Nicholas Halsey, Adaline and Aidan Pauly, and Emma Friess; and a number of other relatives and many friends.

Funeral service was conducted at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 1, at Conway Springs Methodist Church, Conway Springs. Interment was in Conway Springs Cemetery, Conway Springs.

Ebersole Mortuary, Conway Springs was in charge of arrangements. Online guest book and condolences are available at www.ebersolemortuary.com.

A memorial has been established with St. Joseph Catholic School, Conway Springs.