Paula Noll

Paula Noll, age 62, of Rapid City, SD, formerly of Big Stone City, SD, passed away on Sunday, July 27, 2025.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Charles Catholic Church in Big Stone City, SD. Fr. Tom Hartman will celebrate the Mass and inurnment will be at St. Charles Catholic Cemetery in Big Stone City, SD.

Paula Annette Noll was born on February 8, 1963, in Ortonville, MN, to Robert and Patty (Roman) Noll. She was baptized at St. Charles Catholic Church in Big Stone City, SD. Paula attended school in Big Stone City then Ortonville, MN, where she graduated with the Class of 1981. Following her passion for beauty, she attended Boulder Beauty School, graduating in 1985. Paula began a rewarding career as a beautician, sharing her creativity and warmth with clients for many years.

Paula’s professional journey also led her into property management, showcasing her strong organizational skills and dedication to her community. She later worked as a sales representative for Cosmo Professional Beauty Products, where she shared her extensive knowledge and love for the beauty industry.

Having grown up in Big Stone City, Paula later made her home in Longmont, CO, before ultimately settling in Rapid City, SD. She was a devoted member of the Catholic faith, drawing strength and inspiration from her spiritual beliefs.

Adding more fulfillment to her life, Paula met her true love, Andy DeCoursey. To this relationship, he brought his daughter, Maya, who Paula adored. They were together for 20 years.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Paula enjoyed the great outdoors, with a zest for hiking and bicycling that reflected her active lifestyle. She found joy in attending concerts and antiquing, pursuits that allowed her to connect with her passions and the vibrant culture around her.

Having a big heart and a love for animals, Paula always had a cat, or two, or three. She absolutely loved her cats.

Paula had many struggles throughout her life. She battled mental illness all of her adult life. Those who knew her will tell you she had a heart of gold and was a kind person. She was a beautiful person inside and out. Paula battled colon cancer in 2018, and, was declared cancer free. Throughout her years, she experienced the loss of all of her family members, but she always kept her faith. If there was one word to describe Paula; it would be resilient.

Paula was diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer in April of 2025. She entered into hospice and her wish was to pass away at home; she did not want to be alone. Her friend, Deb, cared for her until the end. Deb will tell you she died peacefully on July 27, 2025.

Left to cherish Paula’s memory are her step-daughter, Maya DeCoursey of Colorado; brother-in-law, Brett Cramer, who also helped her through this difficult time; nephews: Eric Knutson of Colorado; and Conner Hanks of Texas; aunt, Judy Noll of Minnesota; many cousins; wonderful friends: Deb and Tami; and two feline friends: Mama and Big Paws.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers: Jeff Noll and Richard Noll; sister, Nancy Cramer; and nephew, Chance Cramer.

Memorials are preferred to a hospice organization of your choice.