Pauledde Caia Plank, 79, of Stillwater, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on July 10, 1946, in Kansas City, Missouri, she was the daughter of Earnest and Caia Hester and was raised in Spearman, Texas.

On January 21, 1967, Pauledde married the love of her life, Larry A. Plank. Together they built a beautiful life over 59 years of marriage, rooted in faith, family, service, and unwavering devotion to one another.

She is survived by her husband, Larry; her son, Bryan Plank and wife Susan; her daughter, Amy Diener and husband Brian; and her three beloved grandchildren, Bryson Diener, Luke Diener, and Emery Plank. Known affectionately as "Gamma," Pauledde's greatest joy came from watching her grandchildren grow and supporting them in every endeavor.

She is also survived by her brothers, Tony Hester and wife Sandra and David Hester; her brother-in-law, Doug Plank and wife Susan; and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Pauledde graduated from Spearman High School, Spearman, Texas in 1964 and Phillips University, Enid, Oklahoma in 1968. Throughout her life, she dedicated herself to serving others as a public school teacher, real estate agent, Oklahoma State University band and cheerleader sponsor, and community leader. Whether in the classroom, a church pew, a card game, or even a dance competition, Pauledde made people feel seen, valued, and loved.

A devoted member of First United Methodist Church, P.E.O. Chapter GN of Stillwater, Beta Sigma Phi, the Stillwater Medical Center Auxiliary, Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), the American Red Cross Board, and the Yost Lake Board of Directors, Pauledde gave generously of her time and talents. She believed deeply that a meaningful life was one spent helping others.

Yet her greatest legacy is not found in the organizations she served, but in the people she shaped. Pauledde possessed a rare gift for making every person feel important. She celebrated others' successes as if they were her own, offered encouragement when it was needed most, and welcomed countless friends, students, neighbors, and family members into her life with open arms and treated everyone as family. She never met a stranger and never missed an opportunity to write a note, make a call, or show up for someone she loved.

As a child of adoption, Pauledde understood the profound importance of belonging. She spent her life creating that sense of belonging for others. Her home was a gathering place, her heart was always open, and her influence reached far beyond her immediate family. Generations of children, students, friends, and community members are better because they knew her.

Her family will always remember her as their biggest cheerleader. Pauledde never missed a game, recital, school event, or milestone. Her friends will remember her loyalty and kindness. Her community will remember her servant's heart. And all who knew her will remember the way she made them feel loved and understood.

Pauledde's legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the friendships she nurtured, the community she strengthened, and the countless lives she touched through her compassion, generosity, and grace. Though she will be deeply missed, the example she set and the love she shared will continue to guide those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Funeral services will be 2:00 P.M. Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at the First United Methodist Church in Stillwater. Strode Funeral Home and Cremation is in charge of arrangements.