Paula and I became friends more than fifteen years ago. Shortly after we met, we realized how much we had in common and quickly became the closest of friends.
• We were both educators, devoted to the growth and success of our students.
• Paula shared the same doctor at USC Medical Center as my late husband.
• We both had children within thirteen months of each other—girls first, then boys.
• Paula’s daughter, Michelle, and my son now live within blocks of each other in Huntington Beach.
• We both have grandsons named Jake.
• We even discovered we had identical living room furniture.
It always felt as though our lives were beautifully intertwined.
Paula had a remarkable ability to make her voice heard and to share her views—whether about her Christian faith or politics—with passion and conviction. She had a strong and generous heart and always looked for the best in people, whether she was educating her students or championing an important initiative.
I treasured listening to Paula’s stories—I could have listened for hours. She spoke so lovingly about her years of teaching and the many students whose lives she touched. She shared the story of meeting and marrying her beloved husband, Mike, with such joy. She delighted in telling stories about her children, Michelle and Michael, growing up with a pool in the backyard, and she spoke with deep admiration for Liz and Jason. She often said, “I am blessed with the best daughter-in-law and son-in-law in the world.”
The stories that made her smile the widest, laugh the hardest, and sometimes bring tears to her eyes were always about her grandchildren—Jake, Evan, and Jade. They were truly the light of her life.
I have so many cherished memories of Paula. One that stands out most was during the time I was writing my dissertation for my doctorate degree. She was endlessly encouraging and knew exactly how to motivate me to keep going. When I felt overwhelmed and doubted whether I could take the next step, she would gently “talk me off the ledge” and remind me of my strength and purpose.
Paula was also instrumental in making sure I had a big celebration after I completed my degree. I will never forget the two of us sitting in a bakery, tasting nine different cakes to choose the perfect one for the party. I had never felt so supported or so special as I did that day with Paula by my side.
Over the years, I often referred to her as my big sister. She always offered sound advice, unwavering encouragement, and the warmest, most loving hugs.
I continue to miss my big sister, Paula, every single day.
My sincere sympathy to the Malody Family!
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