E. Naomi Paulsen

Ethel Naomi Johnson Paulsen, 80, of Pocatello was taken home to her Heavenly Father following an extended illness.

Naomi was born 6 February 1933, to Ethel Leona Stoddard and George Waldemar Johnson, in Coltman, Idaho. The 8th of 9 children, she grew up on the family farm with 4 brothers and 4 sisters where her parents raised milk cows, hay, and wheat. Living on the farm she learned to cook, sew, crochet, embroider, preserve food and churn butter. They were quite self-sufficient with fruit trees, berry patches, large garden and the beef and milk they produced. She spoke often of her gratitude of learning the value of hard work.

She was known by family and friends as Naomi and attended Fairview Elementary through the 8th grade. She enjoyed singing, dancing, performing in band, plays, operettas, and choral presentations while attending high school. She graduated from Ucon High School in 1950. One of the highlights of her teen years was singing at an area conference where she had the opportunity to shake hands with President David O. McKay.

Naomi married Ray Leon Paulsen in Coltman, Idaho on June 19th 1953. Their union was blessed with “one and a half dozen children: one daughter and a half dozen boys” as Ray always said. They lived a short time in Preston, Idaho and then moved to Pocatello and where they have resided for well over 50 years.

Naomi worked as a teacher's aide for School District #25 for 29 years. Working with children, especially those with disabilities brought her much joy. Many people in the area knew her from selling Fuller Brush for thirty plus years.

Naomi enjoyed crocheting, embroidery, quilting, singing, traveling and church service. One of her favorite trips was a trip to Norway and Denmark where they were able to meet some of her distant relatives. She spoke fondly of the trip and the people. She belonged to the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers and was a valiant member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where she served in many callings in the various organizations including scouting.

Naomi loved her family dearly and was exceptional at keeping in touch with the extended family. Many cousins, nieces and nephews will miss her calls and cards. She was a great resource when anyone needed an address or phone number. Children had a special place in her heart and she loved to sit and watch them play or read to them. Many were blessed by her willingness to give service.

Naomi was preceded in death by her parents, Ethel and George Johnson, her husband, Ray, her brothers, Eldon, Earl, Herman and Leland Johnson; her sister, Alvera Johnson Cox; an infant son, Arlon; infant grandchildren, Jackie and Jared Paulsen; great-granddaughter, Jasmine Laing; and granddaughter-in-law, Shannon Campbell Royer.

Naomi is survived by her three sisters; Velma Johnson, Wanda (Derwon) Landon, and Leah(Dan)Landon, all of Shelley, Idaho; five sons-Evan (Mary Lou) Paulsen of Shelley, Idaho, Brian(Lori) Paulsen and Duaine (Kathy) Paulsen both of Pocatello, Idaho, Blaine (Debbie) Paulsen of Idaho Falls, Idaho and Keith (Lynell) Paulsen of Riverton, Utah and one daughter LaDawn (Scott) Royer of Bakersfield, California. Her 24 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren will also miss her dearly.

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