Pauline J. "Paula" Walsh

Pauline J. “Paula” Walsh, a lifelong resident of Melrose, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 24, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital. She was 84.

Born in Melrose on June 30, 1941, Paula was the daughter of the late Everett and Marion (Stantial) Marston. A proud Melrose native, she graduated from Melrose High School and Tufts University before dedicating herself to caring for others as an Occupational Therapist with Hallmark Health VNA. Known for her strong work ethic and devotion to patients, Paula’s career spanned over three decades, and she continued working until the age of 73, a true testament to her grit and determination.

Paula was spirited, strong-willed, and full of life. She spoke her mind, stood her ground, and never backed down from a challenge. Beneath that toughness was a deeply loving and loyal heart, devoted first and foremost to her four daughters and later to her seven cherished grandchildren. She was the steady hand, source of hilarious one-liners, and glue that held her family together.

Outside of her career and family, Paula found joy in her garden. She had an extraordinary green thumb and took pride in growing vegetables, arranging flowers, and transforming anything into something beautiful. Whether knitting, attending the theatre, or discovering antiques near the family camp in Melvin Village, New Hampshire, Paula’s creativity was always on display. She passed down her love of cooking and family recipes to her daughters. She also enjoyed traveling to Florida with friends, vacations to Europe, but was happiest spending summer days reading and watching Lake Winnipesaukee.

Paula was a force. She was feisty, funny, and fiercely loyal. She will be remembered for her strength, her honesty, her humor, and the way she made life richer and more colorful for everyone around her. She will be deeply missed, but her unwavering spirit and the strength she instilled will live on forever.

Polly was the cherished mother of Donna Walsh and her husband Harley Walker of Pittsfield, NH, Lynda Garron and her husband Richard of Melrose, Bonnie Walsh of Melrose, and Carolyn Walsh of Melrose. Beloved grandmother of Heather DiFonzo, Christopher O’Neil, Austin Garron, Spencer Garron, Dillan Fetty, Lia Fetty, Hunter Walsh, and great-grandmother of Arielle DiFonzo.

Family and friends are kindly invited to gather in honor of Paula’s life during Visiting Hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Thursday, Oct. 30 from 9-11am, followed by her Funeral Service celebrated at 11am. Gifts in her memory may be made to Rosie’s Place, PO Box 51399, Boston, MA 02205.