01/27/2025
We’ve lost our dear, beautiful, strong, elegant, hilarious, and iconic Aunt Paulette, and we are heartbroken.
As a teenager, I worshipped Aunt Paulette. Looking back, it was her confidence that I admired most - she knew exactly who she was. Never flighty, nervous, or self-effacing, she exuded a strength and calmness that made people feel at ease. She didn’t just walk into a room; she glided into it like a 1950s movie star, reminiscent of Rosalind Russell or Katharine Hepburn, holding a cocktail, laughing her head off and tossing out wisecracks to those who could keep up with her.
Like any strong woman, she had a signature look: a classic brunette bob, red lipstick, short red nails, and an array of diamonds and gold jewelry. She loved big, bold bracelets. I once told her that bracelets were a symbol of power for women, and she slyly replied, “Oh, really? I just like them. Who knew I was so powerful?”
She was my warrior sister in the battle against breast cancer. When I was diagnosed in 2022, she was already fighting a recurrence of her own. Yet, she called me right away, worried. “You’ll get through it,” she said. “I don’t know how I did it, but I did - and so will you.” And she was right. We both got through it. But for her, the treatments dragged on far longer than anyone should ever have to endure and still she faced each day with bravery and hope and a sense of humor.
I was fortunate to see her a week before she passed, surrounded by her three grown boys, so strong and selfless, along with countless other family members who streamed in and out. In that moment, I thought: if my boys love me and are there for me the way hers have been for her, I will have lived an incredible life. It doesn’t get much better than to pass peacefully, surrounded by the people you love.
Riposa in pace, Aunt Paulette.
We all love you so very much.❤️