It's a good thing they still had five aprons to hand out. Paula, while filterless, was also someone easily endeared by innovative dishes, fresh faces, and stories that tugged at her heart.

This undated image released by Smithfield Foods shows celebrity chef Paula Deen wearing a Smithfield apron as she stands in front of various Smithfield meat products. On Monday, June 24, 2013 ...

Known for her traditional Southern style cooking, Paula Deen is endorsing the Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mat from Sleep Innovations, calling it, “the cook’s must-have item next to the apron.” ...