Paula Gallagher, of Walpole, passed away on Nov. 8, 2024 at her home.
Paula was born on July 31, 1946, to Paul and Ruth (Shay) Waldorf in Fall River, Mass., and grew up in Claverack, N.Y. She graduated from Hudson High School and then Duchess Community College with the class of 1969 as a registered nurse. She joined the U.S. Navy Nurse Corps in 1970.
Paula spent her civilian nursing career in various hospitals, including NYC Lenox Hill, Niagara Falls Memorial, Rockingham Memorial and Cheshire Medical Center. Her Naval career began in Newport, R.I., and brought her to 20 bases across the U.S. She was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal for her success in spearheading EMT training and retired as a Captain in Nurse Corps Reserves. She taught EMS classes locally and was a member of the Alstead Ambulance. She was a proud lifetime member of the Emergency Nurses Association and took great pride in her profession.
Beyond her professional accolades, Paula was one of a kind. She was passionate about her friends and family and was always available with a laugh and a smile. Her lifetime of service was guided by her faith in God. Paula was a member of Sacred Heart Church in Bellows Falls until its closure and then St. Peter's in North Walpole.
Paula was predeceased by her parents, her brother, Barry, and her husband, John. Paula is survived by her children: Erin Feagin, Megan (Scott) Lancy, Devin (Sarah) Gallagher and Cristin (Yoga Ida Bagus); her grandchildren, Brenna, Jeremiah, Shea, Nolan, Keira and Elizabeth; and her great-grandchildren, Madelyn, Mia and Lochlan. Paula is also survived by many dear nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Fenton and Hennessey Funeral Home, 55 Westminster St., Bellows Falls. A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, at 10 a.m. at St. Peter's Church in North Walpole. Burial will be held in the spring in Hudson, N.Y.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to: All Saints Altar & Rosary, P.O. Box 74, Alstead NH 03602.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Fenton and Hennessey Funeral Home, 55 Westminster St., Bellows Falls, Vt.