Paula Gorman
East Lyme — Paula Gorman, 86, of East Lyme, died peacefully Sunday, March 10, 2024, at Fairview nursing home in Groton.
Paula was born in Wareham, Mass., June 19, 1937, to Joseph and Loretta King, and grew up there along with her beloved sister Joan, who predeceased her.
Paula graduated from Boston University, where she met her beloved husband, John. She held a variety of jobs over the years, working as a telephone company customer service coordinator, an interviewer for health studies at Yale School of Public Health, and a cancer helpline specialist with the Yale Cancer Center.
As her husband John put it, Paula was “extra wonderful” in every aspect of her life: as a wife, daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend; and while pursuing her many interests, including the theatre, singing, and walking with friends. One of her main passions was her long-running book group that she and her friend Carolyn created in the 1960s — the source of many wonderful friendships throughout the years. She approached everything with her big smile and infectious laugh, unafraid to share her opinions while always making sure that she took care of everyone around her with empathy, unselfishness and warmth.
When she wasn’t at McCook’s Beach in Niantic, her favorite summer hangout, Paula also enjoyed traveling with John to see numerous concerts, plays and musicals — especially in the Berkshires and New York City. Paula and her family also enjoyed spending many wonderful summers in Maine with her sister Joan and family friends, making sure to hit the best beaches and bakeries south of Portland. But perhaps her greatest joy was spending time with her granddaughter, Julia. Two peas in a pod, they could spend hours together listening to the “Mamma Mia” soundtrack, reading books to each other, or cooking up something involving chocolate (another major Paula passion).
Along with John, Paula is survived by her daughter Joan Razzante, her husband Gary, and their daughter Julia; her daughter Melanie Bishop and her husband Neal; and several nieces, nephews and extended family members.
The burial will be private. A celebration of Paula’s life will be held later this spring for her family and friends to attend.
Paula’s family wants to thank the staff at Fairview for their terrific care and deep compassion during her time there. They’re also grateful for the help Paula received from her Hartford Health hospice caregivers and volunteers.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Thomas L. Neilan & Sons East Lyme Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling Paula’s arrangements. Please visit www.neilanfuneralhome.com to leave the family an online condolence.