Published by Legacy Remembers on Dec. 13, 2023.
Albert (Paul) McAuliffe, 72, of
Kingston, MA, passed away on December 1, 2023, in Boston, MA, after a short illness, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 11, 1951, in
Worcester, MA, Paul was a cherished son, husband, uncle, great-uncle, teammate, and friend. He called Rocky Nook home for 45 plus years and left an indelible mark on the Hilltop Athletic Association and the former Hillside Social Club.
Known affectionately as "Uncle Paul," his endearing title extended beyond family to include other people he met over the years. With his ever-present beard, he embodied the spirit of Santa Claus, a role he played at Christmas for many years. He was convincing as Santa Claus, except for his 4-year-old nephew, who called out "Hi Uncle Paul Santa" the moment he saw him.
Paul's larger-than-life personality, unique sense of humor, and trademark "Paulisms" made him a cherished figure. He had a passion for golf, espionage novels, obscure Western shows from the 50s and 60s, "The Three Stooges," gardening, Boston sports, and his loyal companion, Abbie, his beloved dog.
A proud graduate of St. Mary's High School in
Milford, MA, Paul earned his journalism degree from Boston University on a full football scholarship. It was during his time at BU that he met the love of his life, Marla. They married at 22 and shared 49 years of love, laughter, and countless adventures, from new year celebrations in downtown Boston, to blues cruises, to travels to Sanibel Island. At home, they always sat side by side in their rocking chairs, enjoying movies and Boston sports.
Paul began his professional journey as a sports reporter for the Worcester Gazette and Golf Boston.com. He later held roles in housing and building inspection for the Towns of Hanover and Hull, as well as South Shore Housing. His career culminated in over 12 years of dedicated service to the Town of Plymouth as Director of Inspectional Services, overseeing unprecedented growth in construction projects until his retirement in 2021.
Paul is survived by his loving wife Marla, niece Kristina and her husband Stephen, nephew Nory and his wife Monica, niece Sonja, great-niece Samantha, and great-nephew and godson Zachary. He was preceded in death by his brother and idol Gerry, sister Eileen, mother Evelyn, and father Gerald.
A celebration of Paul's vibrant life will take place at the Hilltop Athletic Association in
Kingston, MA, on January 27, 2024, from 3-7 PM. In place of flowers, contributions can be made to The Wildlands Trust in memory of Paul McAuliffe (wildlandstrust.org).
Paul will be deeply, deeply missed by his family, friends, co-workers, former football teammates, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. As we bid farewell, we imagine Paul sipping a Bud with Gerry in heaven, joined by Eileen and her glass of dry white wine (with ice!).