“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me,” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).
Paula Philon maintains a strong faith and lives based on her favorite bible verse, Philippians 4:13.
She has always enjoyed spending time with her family and cherishes her family each day.
“My mother is Irma McRae, and my father was Willie Lee Cameron. I’m the oldest of four children,” explained Paula. “I married my husband, Arthur Philon, in 1990. Together we have three children: LaToria Keeton, Reginald Keeton, and Brandon King. My thirteen grandchildren are my pride and joy! I’ve enjoyed trips with them to the beach, water parks, and will never forget Camp Binachi.”
Her first time camping with her grandchildren was definitely a memorable experience.
“I like spending time with my grandkids. They’re getting old on me, but some of my funnest times have been spending time with them,” expressed Paula. “When they were growing up, we would go camping. I’ll never forget that one time we went somewhere in Meridian, and it was the coldest night of the year. It was fun and was a memorable moment. We were in a tent, and it was new to me. That was my first time doing it and my last. It was very interesting, and my grandboys enjoyed it. It was around Halloween time, and they were having the Spooky Boo or something like that up there, so they were running around.”
She has always been a hard worker.
“Previously, I worked at Quitman Knitting Mill. I worked there for 12 years,” recalled Paula. “Then, I went to Burlington. I worked there until they closed.”
After Burlington closed, she decided to further her education and take on a different occupation: CNA.
“At the time, I had just been laid off from Burlington. When I first took on the task, I didn’t know if I could do it but decided to give it a try. My motivation was giving it a try,” remembered Paula. “When I went into it, I said that if they could do it then I could do it. I said ‘All things through Christ who strengthens me,’ and so far I’ve done it ever since.”
She started working as a CNA at Lakeside in Quitman and has held various jobs there.
“I work at what used to be Lakeside Health and Rehab; now, we are Diversicare of Quitman. I’ve been there for 20 years or more,” informed Paula. “I worked as a CNA on the floor for 12 years. Then, I went to the data room monitor for two years. For the rest of those years, I’ve been driving the van as a transport. I take care of patients all day long. My mornings usually start around 5:30, and I get off around 5:30 in the evening. I work Monday through Saturday.”
Her job is truly a calling, and she loves being able to work with the elderly and make sure they are well taken care of.
“I love what I do,” proclaimed Paula. “I enjoy caring for the residents. I would tell anyone thinking of becoming a CNA to be sure that you love caring for the needy and have lots of patience.”
She enjoys attending church and spending time with her church family as well.
“I attend Shady Grove Baptist Church in Crandal, and my pastor is Rev. Ronnie Walk,” stated Paula. “Every third Sunday, we have a family get together where we all get together and have lunch. We do that about once a month.”
What little spare time she may have is simply spent with others.
“In my spare time, I like spending time with my family, going to the coast, playing cards, playing Bingo, and catching up on General Hospital,” said Paula.
No matter what she does, Paula has advice that could help anyone along their day.
“Always put God first,” advised Paula. “Pray before you do it, and give it all you’ve got.”
She simply wants to be a blessing and comfort to those around her. People will continue seeing her up and down the highway as she assists the elderly get the services they need, and she will give a smile and encouraging word to those she meets.
