Paula was born May 21, 1947, in Cleveland, Ohio, daughter of Frank and Stella Recko.
Paula grew up in Cleveland and graduated from Sacred Heart Academy High School. She furthered her education while a devotee at Ursuline College in Cleveland and subsequently obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Marion College in Indianapolis.
Paula continued her education with Graduate Studies at the University of Cincinnati and Nonprofit Organization at Northern Kentucky University. Paula was honored as a member of the Honorary Order of Kentucky Colonels. In Covington, Kentucky, Paula was recognized by the Suspension Press for her contributions to minority communities.
On April 21, 1975, Paula married Paul Overman, the love of her life and partner until her day of passing.