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Paula PAPPAS Obituary

PAPPAS, Paula on July 8, 2013, God called Paula Pappas home. The heavenly sounds of the Chaplet of Divine Mercy in the background, surrounded by loved ones, Paula peacefully departed this earthly life. Paula Franklin was born in Washington DC July 25, 1954. Though in our eyes Paula's life was cut short by cancer, hers was a life of great accomplishment, variety and impact. In God's eyes, Paula's life was the exact right length! Paula spent much of her youth in Italy. The roots of her faith can be traced to her education by Catholic Nun's in Venice, Italy. Her love for and appreciation of Europe and European culture never dimmed. Paula earned a Bachelors Degree at Florida State University. She then returned to FSU for advanced studies and earned a Masters Degree in Design and Architecture. Her love of higher learning and desire to help others led her to become a professional educator, ultimately becoming a professor of Design at the University of Texas. In 1983, Paula married Michael Pappas. The birth and life of their son, Michael Pappas III coupled with her successful marriage were the joys of her life. Paula had a unique blend of professional skills and entrepreneurial spirit. In recent years, Paula became a custom jewelry designer, creating elegant pieces that became increasingly beautiful as her design work progressed. Paula's accomplishments were many. Her determination to succeed and help others to likewise succeed continued to the very end of her life. Paula became a certified Yoga instructor in recent weeks. Paula will be forever missed. In the words of her son Michael...."She was the greatest mom ever"! Paula is survived by her devoted husband of 30 years, Michael Pappas Jr., who held her hand as she left this life. Also surviving are her loving son Michael III, his wife, Kristen; and adorable grandson, Michael Pappas IV; sister, Donna Lifland and her husband Paul; and niece Mikela. On July 25, 1954, Paula was born to earthly life. And the angels danced and blew on their horns, on July 8, 2013, Paula was born into Eternal Life. And the angels danced and they danced...and they again blew on their horns! A celebration of Paula's life will be held on July 25, 2013, her birthday, a favorite celebratory day for Paula. Services will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church 750 San Salvador Dr. in Dunedin. Visitation will be from 10:3 am -12 noon, funeral Mass 12 noon.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Tampa Bay Times on Jul. 16, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
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Maria Mattison

July 11, 2019

Paula was an amazing person, she came to the salon I worked at,she was not my client but she was so kind and friendly,she had a beautiful vibe.I was saddened to see she had passed,Rest in peace

July 24, 2013

Paula introduced me to Italy during a girl's trip in 2001. It will always be one of my favorite places on earth as seen thru her eyes. I will miss her so much.
Cathy Cornelius

July 23, 2013

Our deepest sympathy to Paula's family. She was a very special person who will be greatly missed. God Bless her and the family.

Judy Franklin-Uricoli

July 21, 2013

My memories of Paula and her sister Donna start when I was a young girl and my two cousins were coming over from Italy to visit us! It was so exciting to meet them and spend time with them! From that visit on I always loved my two cousins although we lived so far from each other. Throughout the years we would keep in touch, but it was later on that we became closer. Paula was very kind and supportive to me when my parents passed away and we spoke often when her Dad was ill and subsequently passed away. That was the last time I saw my dear cousin, but we did speak as often as possible and she always kept in touch via email or a phone message. Her love for her husband, her son, her grandson, her daughter-in-law, her sister, her niece, her puppy, and others was always mentioned in our conversations! She had such a zest for life and her love of God was so inspiring! She was always there for me, listening to any and all of my stories, sorrows, happiness, etc. She was a good friend to me and I will miss taking with her and reading and seeing her comments/pictures on email/facebook. I so admire her courage and tenacity during her illness and my prayers will never cease for her and those she has left behind. God Bless You Dear Paula, may you be free from pain and filled with peace! We love you! Cousin Judy & Gene

laura sgroi

July 20, 2013

So sorry to hear of this loss. Our prayers are with the family at this time.
The Sgrois

Kim Albergo

July 19, 2013

May your life be remembered in the light of you and the peace of the light be around you and all that you love!

Lisa Rapp

July 18, 2013

From the moment I met Paula, several years ago, by chance, I knew she was a special person and we have been friends ever since. Kind, sincere, humble, talented, loving, smart AND sweet, it was a blessing and a pleasure having the gift of friendship with her. I will truly miss you Paula, and you are forever in my heart. Love and prayer is being sent to your beautiful family.

Cheryl Rodriguez Woodruff

July 18, 2013

I was the lucky one to have such a beautiful friend for over thirty years. Her wisdom, magnificent taste in life and humor will be cherished memories.

gloria eline

July 18, 2013

I met Paula when my grandaughter married her wonderful son. She was a wonderful person and will be missed. She is in my thoughts and prayers always. Gloria Eline

Tami Siewruk

July 18, 2013

Much love and many memories of this wonderful friend.My love and prayers go out you.

Andrea Ghuneim

July 17, 2013

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief.

Tiffany Leigh Crim

July 17, 2013

Sweet mama lama your kindness and laughter will always ring a song in my heart ohh how I loved making food for you in your kitchen. May you feel the love eternal sweet mother of light.

July 17, 2013

We will always remember pyour kindness and beautiful smile. Mike and Norma Karaphillis

lisa walker

July 17, 2013

You left this world with Dignity and Courage & Grace " forver in my Heart you will always hold a beautiful place"
I will miss you so much Paula~
My Beautiful soul sister.

Jayne & Tony Marino

July 17, 2013

We will forever remember Paula's kind heart. A lovely light has dimmed here on earth, but we are sure that her star continues to shines bright from above! May your memories of her, and God's love bring you comfort. With sympathy,

Daisy Sakelson

July 17, 2013

Will always remember the wonderful memories and cherish the joyful times as my daughter's godmother!!!

David & Debby Kaplan

July 16, 2013

Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. It was a true pleasure to spend time with Paula, when she did the remodeling of the dealership. She was warm, friendly and genuine. She always took the time to say hello. She will be missed.

Rob and Sue Hamill

July 16, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers for your family. Paula was a wonderful person and she will be missed. She's now in Heaven watching over all of you.

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