Paula Denise Richardson

Paula passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was a beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished daughter, treasured daughter-in-law, and a friend to all who knew her.

Paula was an extraordinary mother and best friend to her sons, Thomas and Nathan. They were the center of her world, and she dedicated her life to loving, guiding, and supporting them. Her kindness, strength, and example will live on through them always.

She was a loving and devoted daughter to her parents, Steve and Ruth, and wonderful sister to Scott and Robyn, sharing a close bond filled with love, respect, and gratitude. Paula was also an incredible daughter-in-law to Sally and sister-in-law to Betsy and Chad whom she loved as her own. She also had a very close relationship with her niece Makenna and nephew Devin. She was preceded in death by her father-in-law, Jim. Family meant everything to her, and she had a special gift for bringing people together.

Paula had an infectious personality that lit up every room she entered. She was the life of the party, with a warm smile, an unforgettable laugh, and a genuine spirit that drew people in. She was a friend to many and a stranger to none, known for her kindness, compassion, and ability to make everyone feel welcome.

To her husband, Paula was the best wife anyone could ask for - a true partner, confidant, and best friend. They did everything together and shared a life built on love, laughter, and unwavering support. Their marriage grew stronger with each passing day, shaped by deep friendship, mutual respect, and a bond that only deepened over time. She was his constant, his safe place, and the greatest blessing of his life.

Paula was a hard worker who gave her best in everything she did. She was also an outstanding nurse who treated every patient - and every person she worked with - with dignity, compassion, and respect, no matter who they were. Her care went far beyond medicine; she made people feel seen, heard, and truly cared for during some of their most vulnerable moments.

In addition to her work as a nurse, Paula had a profound impact on thousands of students throughout her life as a Math Teacher. For many of them, she was a fork in the road - the person whose guidance, belief, encouragement, or simple act of kindness helped steer them toward a positive direction in life. Her influence reached far beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting imprint on countless lives.

Paula will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, joy, hard work, and compassion will live on through her family, her patients, her students, and all those fortunate enough to have known her. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her.

A celebration of Paula's life will be held on February 21st at 1:00 PM at Fuller Funeral Home, located at 4735 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, FL 34112. Immediately following the service, a reception will be held at a friend's home located at 45 Liberty Lane, Naples, FL 34112.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Paula's memory to Avow Hospice