Paul Vincent Gildea Sr.

Paul Vincent Gildea Sr., age 65, of Wilmington, DE, passed away on December 19, 2025, with his loving family by his side.

Born in Wilmington on June 10, 1960, to the late Robert Sr. and Mary (Moughan) Gildea, Paul grew up in Klair Estates as the 5th of seven children. He learned early on about camaraderie, doted on by his older sisters and wrestling with his older brothers. A graduate of Delcastle High School, Paul was a standout racquetball player and golfer, a member of the Gildea's Raiders semi-pro baseball team, and an enthusiastic fan of all sports. His passion for speed and competition extended to his time with the Alderman racing team and joyful trips to the racetrack, where he loved to watch both car and horse races.

Paul's hands were rarely still. A handyman extraordinaire and our very own MacGyver, he was a craftsman of all trades. Whether it was a family project or a friend in need, his first response to a request was always a predictable, "Nope," but he'd be there in a minute. Behind the gruff exterior was a man who was dependable, reliable, and fiercely loyal. He was a hard worker who loved everything he did. This was true throughout his career, from his time at General Motors and decades in the family business at Gildea's Nursery and Garden Center, to his later years at Walmart, Lowe's, and Second Swing Golf. He was a great boss and a leader of men, respected and admired by every crew he worked with.

Family was the cornerstone of Paul's world, and his children were his everything. His life was defined by the deep, unwavering love he had for his three children: Melanie, Paul Jr., and Christopher. To them, and to so many others, he made a simple, powerful promise: "You're never too far." He proved this time and time again, dropping everything and coming running whenever they called. His love was a verb; it showed up. That same fierce, protective love extended to his six grandchildren, whom he cherished deeply. He was always in their corner, his devotion to his family unwavering.

Paul's story took a beautiful turn when he was reunited late in life Michele Rossi. Having attended St. Mark's High School together, they met again by chance more than 40 years later and were married on October 28, 2016. Though some wondered what the stoic working man and the woman with a PhD would talk about, their love spoke its own language. They shared simple joys, like nights at home watching the Phillies together, finding a quiet comfort in each other's company.

A man who cherished life's simple pleasures, "Poser" loved taking random rides with no destination in mind. Whether it was to the Conowingo Dam, down Route 9, or a stop at Augustine Beach to watch the seagulls float down the river, fly back up, and float back down again, these moments brought him peace.

During his final days at the Delaware Hospice house in Milford, Paul was never alone, constantly surrounded by the unwavering love and presence of his family. His children, Melanie and Christopher, were pillars of strength and comfort, providing tireless support. His nephew Sam also brought him immense joy and solace, a constant, helpful companion whose devotion in those final moments meant the world.

A man of deep faith who put his trust in God, Paul wore his heart on his sleeve. He inherited the Gildea trait from his grandmother Grace of believing there was nothing like a good cry, and he wasn't afraid to show his emotions. He was strong, stubborn, and stuck to his guns, but above all, he was full of love.

He is survived by his wife, Michele; his children, Melanie Kelly (Chester), Paul Gildea Jr. (Ashley), and Christopher Gildea (Erica); his six grandchildren, Paul Kelly, Katherine Kelly, Paul Gildea III, Amina Gildea, Rose Gildea, and Theodore Gildea; siblings Robert Jr., Mary, Graceann, and Vincent; and many loving nieces and nephews. We take comfort in knowing he has been welcomed into Heaven by his parents and his brothers, Thomas and Mark, all of whom have predeceased him.

Paul's big heart, quick wit, and unwavering presence have left an indelible mark. He was loved by all and will be dearly missed by everyone who knew him.

As we say goodbye, we find solace in an Irish blessing:

May the road rise up to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face;

the rains fall soft upon your fields

and until we meet again,

may God hold you in the palm of His hand.

A visitation will be held at 11:30 AM on Tuesday, January 6, at St. John the Beloved Church (907 Milltown Rd, Wilmington), followed by a Catholic Mass at 12:30 PM, with interment to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Paul's memory to Delaware Hospice, whose compassionate care supported them in his final days.