Paula Snelling Wilbanks

In Loving Memory of Mrs. Paula Snelling Wilbanks
January 13, 1942 – October 15, 2025

Mrs. Paula Snelling Wilbanks passed away peacefully on the evening of October 15, 2025, in Austin, Texas, where she had recently relocated from Grapevine to be closer to her beloved children and grandchildren.

Born on January 13, 1942, in Denton, Texas, Paula was the cherished daughter of Major Russell Snelling and Roberta Snelling. At the time of her birth, her father was serving overseas in World War II, guiding his troops through Europe. He returned home when Paula was three years old—beginning a lifelong bond that shaped her sense of resilience, duty, and grace.

Paula graduated from Denton High School and went on to attend the University of North Texas, where she earned her degree in Education. It was at UNT where she met the love of her life, C. Shane Wilbanks. The two married while finishing their studies and began a lifelong partnership rooted in love, service, and family.

She began her career teaching English at Grapevine High School, and as her family grew, so did her dedication to her students and community. Paula later earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling and returned to GHS as a devoted counselor, where she impacted countless young lives with her wisdom, compassion, and unwavering support.

Paula and Shane shared 51 wonderful years of marriage before his passing. Together, they were champions of the Grapevine community, dedicating their time and talents to causes close to their hearts. In 2013, Paula was named Grapevine’s Woman of the Year, honoring her decades of tireless volunteer work and civic leadership. The following year, she and Shane proudly served as co-chairs of the 28th annual GrapeFest—one of many joyful ways they gave back to the town they loved.

Beyond her public service, Paula had a remarkable gift for nurturing lifelong friendships. She remained deeply connected with her childhood and high school friends from Denton, organizing reunions and monthly gatherings that spanned more than 70 years of friendships. To her children, these dear friends became like
extended family, a testament to Paula’s enduring ability to create community wherever she went.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Major Russell and Roberta Snelling, and her husband, C. Shane Wilbanks. She is survived by her devoted brother, Dale Snelling, his wife Lisa, and their children and grandchildren, her beloved circle of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Paula’s greatest joy came from her family, who she loved deeply and supported unconditionally. She leaves behind her daughter Shaye Wilbanks Kopec and husband Chris, and their children Zach, Alex and his wife Katie; son Chad Wilbanks and wife Rachelle, and their children Garrett, Reagan, and Ava; and her son Shane
Wilbanks and his son, Landon.

Paula leaves her family with a lasting legacy of faith, warmth, laughter, and boundless love. Her gentle strength, encouraging spirit, and genuine kindness will be remembered always.

A service celebrating Paula’s beautiful life will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Grapevine on Tuesday, October 28th at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her honor may be made to the many volunteer and service organizations in Grapevine that she held dear, or to the Denton Animal Shelter, reflecting her lifelong love of animals.

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