Mystic - Paula (Shleffar) Garnica, 83, passed away peacefully Sept. 2, 2025 in Mystic.

Born May 1, 1942, in Norwich, to James and Mary (Berkman) Shleffar, Paula grew up in Norwich and graduated from Norwich Free Academy in 1960. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree in art history from Connecticut College in 1964.

Paula was married to Luis Garnica and lived in Mexico City for 12 years. She is survived by her daughters, Emily (Kris) Aungst and Jennifer (Darren) Shill; her beloved grandchildren, Scarlett, Beatriz and Vivian; and her step-grandchildren Kameron, Hannah and Logan. She also leaves behind her sisters, Frances Shleffar and Susan Lasch.

Paula had a lifelong love of art. She delighted in visiting museums, sharing her passion with others, and creating her own works. After college, she moved to New York City, where she worked in the Original Prints department of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, while also taking courses at the Institute of Fine Arts. Paula's own paintings - primarily oils on canvas - were distinguished by vibrant cityscapes and expressive use of color and mood. Her family cherishes her artwork, which remains a living testament to her creativity.

In 1988, Paula returned to Norwich and four years later, began a career as a support educator in the Norwich Public School system. She worked at Huntington, Buckingham, and Moriarty Elementary Schools until her retirement in 2018.

Beyond her professional and artistic pursuits, Paula loved trivia games, historical fiction, and traveling with her family. She especially enjoyed cruises and visited many unique destinations in the Caribbean and Europe. She was a member of Temple Emanu-El in Waterford and an active participant in programs at the Rose City Senior Center in Norwich. In her later years at Academy Point in Mystic, Paula took great pleasure in the daily crossword, musical programs, art classes and bingo.

Paula will be remembered for her creativity, her engagement in various communities, and her devotion to family.

The graveside ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 5, at the Norwich Hebrew Benevolent Cemetery #3, 62 Middle Road, Preston.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in the memory of Paula Garnica to Temple Emanu-El in Waterford, CT or Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center to the attention of: Killeen Marzella, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Office of Development, PO Box 27106, New York, NY 10087.

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

Published by The Day on Sep. 4, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Paula Garnica

Sponsored by Church & Allen Funeral Service - Norwich.

9 Entries

Nance Darrow Morin

October 28, 2025

Fond memories of Paula and family from Norwich on Harland Place. Paula was a friend for many years.
We went to school together, had great parties, and fun back in the late fifties. I was so sorry to hear of her passing. To Fran and Susan my heartfelt sympathy.

Nance Darrow Morin

October 27, 2025

Paula and I grew up on the same street in Norwich. We went to the same schools. To her sisters Fran and Susan I am so sorry to hear this news.
With Sympathy
Hugs

Tami Chapman

September 9, 2025

will always remember your smile, enjoyed sharing stories of are Grandchildren, we each had a Scarlett, Scarlet!

Irene Schienberg

September 5, 2025

I met Paula many years ago for a brief time period. My heartfelt condolences to her family and the beautiful legacy that she left. Her Memory will always be for a Blessing. Irene Cooper Schienberg

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Christina Cook

September 5, 2025

Mrs. Garnica, you were a wonderful woman and you will be so missed. Thank you for always welcoming me into your home. May you rest in peace.

Rhonda, Mark and Dara

September 4, 2025

To Fran, Jen, Emily and your families,

It is with extremely heavy hearts that we add our condolences upon Paula´s passing. We always looked forward to sharing a laugh or two during the happy times we were with her.

Her impact as a role model, teacher and friend will live forever within all whom she graciously touched.

Your devotion during Paula´s more challenging days was remarkable. You undoubtedly provided a sense of calm and great comfort in easing her pain.

Our profound wish is that the warm embrace of family, friends and happy memories provide you all with comfort during these terrible days.

May Paula´s memory be a blessing and may your sorrow soon give way to cherished remembrance free from pain.

In shared sadness,
Rhonda, Mark and Dara

Joan Baffaro

September 4, 2025

Paula and I worked in the same capacity for twenty years in Norwich and I always admired her work ethic and dedication to the children she worked with. We would often see each other in the stores around town and would always find so much to talk about . Paula was so genuine and interesting . She loved her family very much and was proud of you all. I am sorry for your loss and know you will keep her alive in your stories and memories. Condolences to all of you.

Patricia Malchman

September 4, 2025

Emily, Jennifer, Fran an Sue,
Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of your mother and sister, Paula. I worked with her in the Norwich Public Schools many years ago. She was a lovely lady. We shared many conversations and laughs. She spoke of her family often with great love. May you be comforted from Heaven knowing she will be loving you always.

Dave Fairman

September 4, 2025

Rest in Pease Paula

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