Paula Moody

Paula "Cookie" Moody, a beloved wife, mother, Meme, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2025, at the age of 93 in San Antonio, Texas. Born on September 13, 1931, in Hayward, California, Cookie lived a life full of love, strength, and dedication, leaving an unforgettable mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Cookie's journey began in the United States Army, where she served as a Sergeant for four years and proudly doing her part during the Korean War. Following her honorable service, she wasted no time becoming a PROUD Texan and married the love of her life, Melvin Moody, on November 11, 1954. The couple established their roots in Robstown, Texas, where they began their family, later moving to George West before finding their forever home in Dilley, Texas, a place Cookie affectionately referred to as “A Slice of the Good Life.”

As a dedicated wife and mother, Cookie was known for her sweet and kind nature. She was a constant source of support and encouragement, always smiling and acting as the biggest cheerleader for her loved-ones. Her commitment to her family extended beyond the home; she proudly embraced her role as a coach’s wife, standing firmly beside Melvin, and attending every football game, along with other sports, with unwavering enthusiasm.

Her sweet and angelic spirit brought joy to her family, friends, and all fortunate enough to cross her path. Cookie's infectious smile was a beacon of light, symbolizing her kind-hearted nature and the warm embrace she offered to all.

Cookie was an avid fan of the Cowboys, Spurs, and the Dilley Wolves celebrating every victory (and loss) with enthusiasm. She devoted countless hours supporting her children as their room mother and in their extracurricular activities, beaming with love and pride. Everyone that knew her concludes, “Cookie lit up heaven the moment that she got there!”

Cookie is survived by her loving daughters, Jackie (Graford) Rogers of Corpus Christi, Texas, and Melva Moody of San Antonio, Texas. She is also remembered by her grandchildren Kelly (Sarah) Harlan, Brad Harlan, and Tyler (Brittany) Chambliss, as well as her great-grandchildren Emma and Maggie Harlan and Nathaniel and Arabelle Chambliss. Cookie leaves behind her cherished two sisters-in-law, Barbara Ann Lawrence and Yvonne Herrmann, and brother-in-law David Moody, numerous nieces, nephews, extended family as well as many loved ones in California, who will carry her legacy in their hearts.

She joins in eternal rest her husband, Melvin Moody; her daughter, Cheryl Linn Moody; her sons, Jack Moody and Charlie Melvin Moody; her parents, Paul and Anna Hendrix; and her four loving siblings: Evelyn Yonker, Paul Hendrix, James Hendrix and Bernie Neilsen, and special brother-in-law, C.L. Moody, Jr.

Cookie's life will be celebrated with a visitation on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, from 5 PM to 7 PM at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary in Kingsville, Texas. A funeral service will follow on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 10 AM, also at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary, with interment at Restland Cemetery in Bishop, Texas to follow. A reception will take place immediately after at the home of Kelly and Sarah Harlan at 520 Meadowbrook Rd., Bishop, Texas.

As we remember Cookie Moody, we celebrate a woman who embodied kindness and love throughout her life, one whose spirit will continue to inspire through the generations of family she cherished deeply. Her memory will forever be a blessing.

Pall Bearers include her treasured family. Grandsons: Kelly, Brad and Tyler and nephews: Donny Lawrence, Mark Kennerly and Booger Herrmann. Honorary Pall Bearers: David Moody, Russell Moody, Graford Rogers, and Dr. Jack Seals.

Floral Selections by: Rose Buds Flowers 361.296.4496 or in lieu of flowers, donations in Cookie’s honor may be made online to: The Ehlers-Danlos Society.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Dr. Lance Hartsfield, Pastor. Your presence and guidance during this time mean so much to our family. It would have meant the world to Momma to have you officiate her service.