Paulette (James) Boykins was born on June 17, 1948, in Independence, Louisiana. She was the fourth child of the late Clotiel Sims James and Herman James Sr. She was educated in the Tangipahoa Parish Segregated School Systems and chose to continue her studies at the prestigious Grambling State University in Grambling, Louisiana. Paulette was a proud Grambling Tiger and earned degrees in Health and Physical Education and Social Studies, as well as a Masters degree in Adaptive Physical Education. Paulette was a member of the Martha Adams Alumni Chapter of Grambling State University, one of the largest chapters in the country which was under the leadership of the late Thomas Stevens. In addition to her formal education, she was a Licensed Real Estate Agent, a certified tax preparer and a certified cake decorator. She enjoyed a long career as a teacher of Geography, Physical Education, and French and served as a beloved women's sports coach at Hammond High School. Among her many accolades she also initiated the first and only African American Studies class to be offered at Hammond High School, one of her many achievements.

No amount of words can begin to scratch the surface of all that she accomplished over the course of her robust life. Her passion for the Black American experience was a driving force in her life and she never missed an opportunity to educate someone on our rich history.

Paulette felt a deep passion for teaching and greatly enjoyed doing so. Her impact was felt through her many students and athletes. Paulette took great comfort in her close relationship with God. She was saved at a young age and enjoyed attending church. She also enjoyed reading, traveling, coaching and participating in sports. Paulette was a life-long student. Whether it was spending a summer in France, taking up cake decorating, immersing herself in the real estate business, or just making her way through a never-ending pile of books, Paulette always appreciated opportunities to both learn and teach.

Paulette was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband, Councilman Lonnie Boykins Sr., and her brothers Herman James Jr. and Roy Mell James.

She will be fondly remembered by her two children; Edmond A. James (Jeamie McCullen) of Franklinton, LA, Patrick James (Kayron James) of Newnan, GA; her twelve grandchildren, Tyisha Short-Griffith (Steve Griffith) of San Antonio, TX, Gary Brooks of Newnan, GA, Dominique James of New Orleans, LA, Tarah James of Las Vegas, NV, Kareishia Self (Latif Self) of Edwards AFB, CA, Amber James-Jacobs (Kenneth Jacobs) of Upper Marlboro, MD, London Magee of Hattiesburg, MS, Kaliya Hardin-James of New Orleans, LA, Nicholas James of Newnan, GA, Dynahsty James of Newnan, GA, Kira Hardin-James of Las Vegas, NV, Baby James of Franklinton, LA; eight great-grandchildren, Mariah Walker, Quincy Seaberry, Trinity Seaberry, Zaniyah Carter, Carter Self, Braelynn Griffith, Jayden Self, Cairo Jacobs; as well as numerous relatives and friends.

On Sunday, May 15, 2022, Paulette passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family. Her impact will be felt in the hearts of her loved ones forever. Her legacy will live on for generations to come.

Friends and family are invited to attend the viewing at Community Church of God 61489 Bennett Rd. Amite, La 70422 from 9:00am- 11:00am.  Funeral service will begin promptly after. Burial will follow the funeral service at Fluker Community Baptist Church 12673 Joynton Rd, Fluker, LA 70436.