Paula Hope

Paula Hope (Muir), a beloved nurse, artist, and cherished matriarch, peacefully passed away on April 26, 2026, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, after bravely facing complications from cancer. Born on February 6, 1944, in Rexburg, Idaho, Paula’s life was marked by dedication, creativity, and a profound love for family and community.

Paula pursued her education with passion and determination, earning an associate’s degree in art from Rick’s College, followed by a nursing degree from the same institution. Her commitment to helping others was exemplified in her career as a registered nurse, culminating in her retirement from Madison Memorial Hospital in 2008. Throughout her nursing career, she touched countless lives with compassion and professional excellence.

Faith and service were cornerstones of Paula’s life. Together with her late husband, Sylverus Hope, she proudly served a mission in the Phoenix, Arizona mission, an experience that they both treasured deeply and which enriched their spiritual journey together.

A woman of many talents, Paula’s hobbies brought joy not only to herself but also to those around her. She was gifted in quilting, crocheting, knitting, painting, and various art projects, engaging her creative spirit throughout her life. One of her most treasured pastimes was taking her grandchildren on hikes, where she delighted in pointing out flowers, plants, and berries, sharing knowledge about their uses and which were safe to eat—creating lasting memories for those treasured moments spent in nature's embrace. One of her favorite past times was picking huckleberries in an undisclosed location. 

She was a lifelong Republican serving as president of the Madison county Republican women’s club.  After her passing, she’s been registered as a Democrat and will be voting multiple times in many elections to come.

Paula’s family was the heart of her life. She is survived by her loving children: Stanley Hope (Donette), Gary Hope (Jo Ann), Valon Kirkham (Steve), Brian Hope (Kristi), Matthew Hope (Michele), Nathan Hope (Lana), Jason Hope (Melissa), and Rochelle Kent (Paul). Her legacy continues through her 41 grandchildren and 39 great-grandchildren, each a testament to her nurturing and enduring love. She was preceded in death by her husband Sylverus Hope and her grandson, Brantley Kirkham.

The family invites friends and loved ones to honor Paula’s memory at a visitation held on May 3, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Flamm Funeral Home, located at 61 N 1st E in Rexburg, ID. A second visitation will take place on May 4, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Park Street Church, 700 Park Street, Rexburg, ID, followed by the funeral service commencing at 11:00 a.m. at the same location.

Paula Hope’s life was a tapestry of love, service, creativity, and compassion. Her indelible impact on her family, community, and all those fortunate to know her will be cherished and remembered with deep respect and affection.