Beloved Sister, Wife, Mother, and Nonna
On Saturday night, January 21st, Pamela Courier Shoup — beloved sister, wife, mother, and Nonna – was called home by her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, with her family by her side. Though our hearts are broken, the memories we made with her will last us many lifetimes.
A native Texan, she was born at Fort Hood and raised predominantly in Southport, Indiana. She attended Indiana University, graduating with a degree from the School of Public and Environmental Affairs. It was at IU that she met Greg, taking his breath away for the first of countless times. They wed in 1978, and their marital adventure would end up taking them from San Jose to Boca Raton to Austin Texas.
Self-reliant, intelligent, and empathetic to the core, she dedicated her life to serving others, both as an educator (first for her sons, then as a Christian school math and science teacher) and a volunteer (a small-group youth leader, crisis pregnancy center and a caregiver for her precious grandchildren).
We wish we could adequately express how deeply she loved and was loved in return, and we will miss her until that great day when Jesus will gather his followers together in heaven.
Left to remember and cherish her are her husband Greg; sons Brad (Catherine) and Jeff (Lauren); siblings Lynn (Jim) and Dan (Diana); brothers-in-law Mark (Cathy), Steve, and Scott (Beth); and grandchildren Henry, Daniel, Paul, Sylvia, and Esther. She was preceded in death by her father (David), mother (Nora), brother Dave and grandson Thomas.
We would encourage people who knew Pamela to make a gift in her honor to her favorite charity, Living Water International (https://water.cc/), which honors Jesus’ command to “love your neighbor as yourself” by providing clean drinking water to impoverished communities across the world.
Please feel free to share your thoughts, feelings, and remembrances of Pamela for Family and Friends with the Remembrance Form below.
Greg,
We are so sorry to learn of your precious Pam’s passing.
We rejoice, however, that she is with Jesus!
Dear friend, our prayers are with you and your family. I think often of the Shoup boys at Greencastle Christian Church. God’s grace and peace be with you my brother. Mark Wager
Hey Mark, I too have many fond memories of our days at Greencastle Christian Church when it was in “start-up” mode. Calvin Fox, the Brummetts, the Poors, the Coffees etc. Great times and the place where God brought me to faith! Thanks for your prayers, I appreciate them and I’m sure the Lord has shared them with Pamela.
It has taken me this long to be able to write this as I wanted to wait to write so that I could do it without crying.I guess it didn’t work as tears began to run down my face as soon as I started. 🙁 Pam was a dear, dear friend, even though the past few years we did not see each other often. I was so happy when she and Greg started coming to Hutto Bible. But of course COVID hit and that put a stopper on it. Anyway, I served in Youth Ministry with Pam for many, many years. She and I shared an office when we were volunteer staff at HCBC. She was an incredible lady and well loved. She would make me laugh even when she was being serious. Her expressions cracked me up. She made working in SM a pleasure. We spent many hours working details of events. I remember one time when we were in Waco for Boot Camp, our plans were changed on us and we had to make a new one last minute. We ended up needing to transport 100 teens to various places in Waco. We spent the entire night together, (watching everyone sleep), while figuring out how our drivers could drop off, pick up more and drop them off somewhere else and then reverse everything when the teens were done with whatever assignment they had.. When we would get a bit frustrated trying to fit everyone into vehicles she would say, “Sometimes you have to just kill a kid”! She was so funny. She would say the funniest things (Oh my head) ( I need men -meaning leaders) and not even realize it until it was pointed out to her. I cherish these memories. She loved her husband and boys so much. She would talk about them and was so proud of all they did. She was so happy becoming a grandma. She was thrilled when she was asked to watch them. Pam will be missed by so many. Her love for Jesus was evident in her everyday life and now she is enjoying being with her Savior. I look forward to seeing her again. In a blink of an eye!
Debbie, your words were so kind and uplifting. I always loved her ability to say quirky things (I need men…then realizing what she said and then qualifying it…I mean leaders.). Those moments just made us laugh. I told Bobby that those days in SM at HCBCNW (acronyms!!) were some of the best days of her life. She was a singularity. I hope Jesus likes to laugh!
Greg, I am thinking of you and your family tonight. I am so sorry for your loss and sending my heartfelt condolences.
Heidi, I really appreciate your compassionate words. It’s been over a week, but not having Pamela around is still painful. But God is good even when circumstances are difficult. Your thoughts and prayers help bring comfort to myself, my two sons and their families. Again, thanks for taking the time to post. God bless.
I met Pam and Greg at a brewery. From the first time we struck up a conversation I knew these were people whose company I will enjoy. I was correct. Pam and Greg are as pro-life as me and we rejoiced when Row vs Wade was overturned. Pam and I were both heart patients. Pam and I both taught at a Catholic school. Pam and Greg sponsored an Angel Tree at Christmas once for children of incarcerated men. What a perfect example of Christian charity. And of course, we all enjoy craft beers.
My heart goes out to Greg. I can not imagine losing my wife.
Prayers.
Mickey, Pamela and I count you as a very good friend. We felt blessed to have met you at a craft brewery no less, through a “stein club”. When you went through your heart surgery and shared your experience with Pam, it was so encouraging to her to know there was another she could chat with about her situation. And how many times did we solve the American political scene over a good craft beer? 😉 Thank you for taking the time to post. I’ll see you again shortly at Rentsch.
Greg
Pam was a wonderful lady, still in shock since Jeff and you called. But she is in a wonderful place.
I have no thong comment, but that was a great story.
I remember when I first met Pam in CA.
I told you that you married way over your head. I said the same thing when Pam and you bought your first home in Gilroy. We lived miles apart over the years but we were always family. Sure wish we didn’t change our plans last summer and stopped by. Marlene and I send Prayers to you, Jeff and Brad. Call or text anytime. Love you cuz.
Thanks Jim. When Pam and I were first married and moved to California in 1978 (Wow!), you, Billy, Marlene, Pam and of course Uncle Bill and Aunt Emie were our family. You guys made Pamela feel so loved and accepted. She’s with your Mom and Dad today in paradise and rooting for the Hoosiers over those Boilermakers! Love you guys much. Take care, your Texan cousin.
I was so sorry to hear of Pam’s passing. We know it’s gain for her, but incredible pain for those left missing her so much. “Mrs. Shoup” was my ninth grade Biology teacher, then tenth grade US History teacher, then a youth leader and a friend. I was the most frustrating Biology student ever, wanting to understand WHY everything works the way it does, and I don’t know how she put up with me! She was patient, smart, tender-hearted, and hilarious. We shared a hotel room on a class trip to Vicksburg, MS and went on many youth group trips together, including one East Asia trip. When I think of Pam, in my memories she is occasionally crying (because she had such an empathetic, tender heart), but she is mostly laughing (because she had an amazing sense of humor and dry wit). She poured herself out for others and had an enormous impact on many lives! I’m praying for your family as you grieve.
One story shared by a classmate, Kim (Goble) Nevels: “She had the patience of a saint to deal with our teenager antics sometimes. A funny story I will never forget is that we were preparing for that trip to Vicksburg. She was telling the class things to pack and said, “don’t forget your thongs!” We all busted up laughing as we realized our definition of thongs was very different than her definition that meant “flip-flops.” She about died when we told her why we were laughing. We laughed at that joke all year, and I’m pretty sure we retold the story even at our 10-year high school reunion as one of the highlights from school. She was so gracious and patient with us as a class and brave to step in and teach a headstrong bunch. She had the sweetest heart!”
Laurie, thanks for sharing these memories. Vicksburg Mississippi, can’t think of a more exciting place to visit. Had to have been civil war related. One of things I witnessed, as you highlighted, was the number of girls whose relationship with Pamela transitioned from authority figure (teacher, youth leader) to friend. I always loved Pamela for that and respected young women like yourself who walked along side her through the transition. Friendship is one of God’s greatest gifts to his creation. May God bless you, Joel and your family.
Mrs. Shoup was one of my high school teachers. She had the patience of a saint to deal with our teenager antics sometimes. A funny story I will never forget is that we were preparing for a class trip to Vicksburg, Mississippi. She was telling the class things to pack and said, “don’t forget your thongs!” We all busted up laughing as we realized our definition of thongs was very different than her definition that meant “flip-flops.” She about died when we told her why we were laughing. We laughed at that joke all year, and I’m pretty sure we retold the story even at our 10-year high school reunion as one of the highlights from school.
She was so gracious and patient with us as a class and brave to step in and teach a headstrong bunch. She had the sweetest heart!
Kim, what a cute story! Thank you so much for sharing it. When you teach high schoolers, every comment you make puts you at risk. May God bless.
Bruce and I were shocked to hear of Pam’s home going. It just doesn’t seem real yet. We grieve with you, and we also rejoice with you as we know she is with Jesus. The silly thing that stands out to me about Pam is that she could install a ceiling fan. She was extremely smart, witty, she loved Jesus and took time to invest in the lives of students, AND she could install a ceiling fan. Wow! It gave me joy to see the beautiful pictures of her with her grandkids, obviously enjoying them and taking the opportunity to teach them. She will be dearly missed, but I count it a privilege to have known her and have seen Jesus in her. Greg, we are praying for you and your family as you grieve her loss and navigate these uncharted waters.
Gail, ceiling fans and sound bars on TVs that reduced me to tears! Like you guys she LOVED her grandchildren. They brought a joy to her life that she didn’t quite anticipate until she experienced the innocent and trusting love of a baby. You and Bruce have been trusted friends for 25 years. God brought you into our lives at just the right time. He runs the universe very well. Thanks so much for your gracious words and love for Pamela. Your prayers are sincerely coveted.
We were so saddened to hear of Pamela’s passing. She was a lovely, down to earth lady, whose kindness just radiated from her. She was devoted to each member of her family, but most especially to you, Greg. We distinctly remember her telling us of how you both planned date night surprises for each other. Sweet acts of love were just who she was, and who you were as a couple. We are all at a loss in her absence.
Pat and Bruce Greiner
Pat and Bruce, thanks for your gracious words. Shortly after we moved to Austin (due to Bruce!) you all had us over for dinner. It was a fun night and it meant a lot to Pamela who essentially knew no-one in Austin. Those moments that can be taken for granted can also have big impacts. That night made Pam feel welcome both in your home and in Texas. Please give my best to Bruce, he was an outstanding IBM manager and mentor.
I knew Pam, her sister, brothers and parents over 50 years ago when they lived across the street from my family in Indiana. All the Couriers were awesome neighbors, but I especially remember Pam as very sweet and caring. I’m so sorry for the family’s loss.
Hey Rock, this is Pam’s husband and I want to thank you for your kind words about her. I know I’m biased, but “sweet and caring” are words I would use too to describe Pamela. She had great childhood memories and no doubt, you were part of them.
Rock,
Thank you for your sentiments. We shared many memories with your family. Winchester Village was a great place in our youth. Your post here will bring some fond memories of those times providing comfort and strength in the days ahead.
Dear Greg, Brad, Jeff, and family,
I am praying that God will comfort and sustain you as you mourn your great loss. I knew beloved Pam as a fellow parent, teacher, and ministry leader. She was a kind and gentle soul who served her LORD joyfully and faithfully. I fondly remember her charming reaction to many little surprises of our middle school world: “Oh, my head!” followed with a grin. Her trust in God in the midst of health crises was an inspiration to me and many others. I rejoice that she now enjoys perfect rest in the arms of our Savior. In Christ,
Jan Windsor
Jan & Chris, thanks for your gracious words. Pam really respected and loved you at HCCSA Jan, and what a wonderful memory we both had when we first attended CPC and saw you guys there. God is always at work in the circumstances of life. P.S., I had forgotten about “Oh my head”. 🙂
Greg, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Paula and Steve Jarvis
Paula & Steve, thanks for reaching out. You prayers are greatly appreciated. I have fond memories of those days in 901…
Thank you, Mrs. Shoup, for the countless years that you invested not only in my life, but in so many people around you. Thanks for being such an incredible role model of a Godly woman, and for being there to support and mentor me during such critical times in high school and college. I have so many wonderful memories of you – from simply going out to eat and talk, to our mission trip in East Asia. Even though that was years ago, you played a significant role in who I am today, and I’m so thankful for you.
Mary, Pamela always loved you and considered you a good friend. I have many pictures of the two of you together doing ministry in east Asia and it makes me smile to remember the joy she got out of those trips and being with people she loved and respected. Thank you so much for taking the time to leave your remembrance. 🙂
Shoup Family,
We are mourning with you. What in immeasurable loss. I will always remember “Mrs. Shoup” as such a caring heart, a twinkling eye and a smiling face in the Hill Country Bible Church youth group leadership. It’s so hard to calculate what an impact she and others like her had in the lives youth like Brooke and me were once upon a time. I wish there was something we could do to ease the ache. We look forward to the day when we will see her smiling face again, complete in the light of our Savior. We were just a two of the lives that she touched, but we are deeply thankful that she lived in the sacrificial way that she did. Praying for all of you guys. May the peace of Jesus be gifted to you in deep and unexpected ways now and in the days to come.
Chris, thanks for your kind comment. Pamela loved her time as a youth leader at HCBCNW and Pflugerville. She is with the Lord in a place he described as “paradise.” 🙂
Pam was a superhero math teacher when we struggled to launch HCCSA. Her love for Jesus, willingness to serve and her patience in stressful times blessed so many. The joy she had in her growing family is clear in the many pictures with her grands. Knowing that today she is in paradise with her Lord is the greatest comfort.
Thanks Barbara. She always looked up to you as a mentor; a teacher she wanted to emulate. She is indeed in paradise with a ticket punched by Jesus himself.
Aunt Pam was one of the warmest people I’ve ever known. Her faith has always been an inspiration to me and her positive impact on those with the good fortune to know her is evident. Sending love and prayers to all who are feeling this tremendous loss. She will be so dearly missed.
Love,
Dana, Josh, Millie and Scarlett Reckley
Dana, thanks so much for your encouraging words. Pam loved you, Josh and your family. Your prayers are truly cherished by myself, Brad, Jeff and their families.
Dear Sister,
We are in a state of shock and disbelief at the heartbreaking news that you have left us too early. You were such an important part of our lives and our hearts ache at your sudden departure. Please know that we are grieving with deep love and affection.
In honor of you, We will always remember your warm and kind heart. Despite any hardships in your life, you were always the first to assist others. This is an example we should all follow.
We will remember our beautiful memories with you, the laughter, the tears, and the good times we shared. Most of all, we will keep the love we have for you in our hearts forever.
Rest in peace, dear sister.
Greg, Brad, Jeff, and Families,
It’s hard to imagine life without her and the emptiness that comes with the grief of loss.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time. Please know that if you need anything, we are here for you. We will all miss her so much, and the world has lost an incredible person.
Love always,
Daniel And Diana
Dan and Diana. I don’t need to tell you how much Pam loved you. Y’all have been there for here for longer than I was with her! Pretty cool to have family like you guys in her life. She’s in heaven now and though we grieve, that makes us smile.
Praying for you and your family, Greg.
Lisa, thank you so much for taking the time to share your willingness to pray for myself and my family. Jesus told us to always pray and “not give up.” Thanks for honoring that command.
I met Pam at HCCSA, a fellow teacher in the portables. She was SUCH a gifted teacher, empathetic, down to earth, a wonderful person to work beside. My heart goes out to you, to say “see you later” someone you’ve shared life and love with for 45 years. I will pray that you and yours experience the peace that passes all understanding.
Nancy, thank you so much for your wonderful words. Like Kerry and Barbara, Pam really respected you as a teacher and valued your friendship. I am grateful that you are praying that the Lord grants me His peace that “passeth all understanding”.
Pam was always one of my favorite people since meeting y’all when I was in Middle School. From the movie night sleep overs where Cici’s pizza was always on the menu to the nights I stayed while my parents were out of town she always made me feel like part of the family. One of my favorite memories was her going with us to a Weezer concert when we were in early high school and getting the same floor seat tickets we had. She would Facebook message me now and then to check in. There are so many more memories that I will treasure and she will be severely missed.
Colin; Though Pamela wasn’t a Packer’s fan she always loved you. 😉 She had so many great memories of you when you carpooled with her, Brad and Jeff to HCCSA. I remember her being excited about that Weezer concert and I had no idea who they were! Pamela: cool, Greg: not cool. Thanks for the memories you shared. She really did love you.
Thankful to have known Mrs. Shoup and that she was so invested in all of us at church and school growing up. What a wonderful person she was. Glad that she knew Jesus and we’ll see her again. Praying for the family
Carley, thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts. We sincerely appreciate your kind words.
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Pam. She was a wonderful colleague and I enjoyed our many conversations over the time we intersected at HCCSA. I know she loved being a Grandma and enjoyed her many little blessings. May God’s incredible love and care surround you all as you walk through the next steps.
Kerry,
Thank you for taking time to post your remembrance. Pamela considered you not only a friend, but an excellent teacher, with high classroom standards. She spoke well of you to me. She is with Jesus in paradise now and that gives me the comfort that I need to move forward in a difficult situation after 45 years of marriage. Her passing (heart and respiratory failure) was quick and not expected. But, God is good, even when it’s hard to see. Please give my best to Craig.