Paula Gail Meredith passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on June 21, 1942, Paula grew up in Carneys Point, New Jersey, and graduated from Penns Grove High School with the Class of 1961. Throughout her life, she remained close to many of her classmates and treasured staying connected with her high school friends through Facebook.

Whether you knew her as a coworker, neighbor, friend, or family member, Paula had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, valued, and loved.

Paula was married to the love of her life, Frank R. Meredith, for 53 wonderful years until his passing on April 26, 2016. Together they built a life filled with laughter, adventure, and unwavering devotion. They loved gadgets, enjoyed trying their luck with lottery tickets and occasional trips to the casino, and most of all treasured the countless memories they created together. Anyone who knew Paula and Frank knew they shared a remarkable love story and a partnership built on friendship, fun, and deep affection.

While Paula deeply loved her husband, her greatest treasures were her two sons, Ronald and Donald, born thirteen years apart. She was a devoted mother who cared not only for her own children but also for many of the neighborhood children in Pennsville, New Jersey. Her nurturing spirit, gentle heart, and open door made her a second mother to many.

Paula is survived by her son Ronald Meredith and his wife, Carol Ann; her son Donald Meredith and his wife, Deb; and her beloved grandchildren, Trey Redfield, Maggie Redfield, Alex Candelmo, and Aidan Meredith. Her grandchildren brought immeasurable joy to her life, and she loved celebrating their accomplishments, sharing stories, and creating memories with them.

Paula was known for her creativity and generosity. She loved crafting and spent countless hours making beautiful handmade blankets that remain treasured keepsakes for family and friends. An avid bowler, she enjoyed many years on the lanes and cherished the friendships she made there. Among her dearest friends was Annie, her lifelong companion in fun and laughter. Together they bowled, celebrated at AJ's, exchanged thoughtful Christmas gifts, and shared a friendship that brought Paula great happiness throughout the years.

For many years, Paula worked in the Tax Assessor's Office for the Town of Pennsville. She loved her work and especially loved the women she worked alongside. Family members were often treated to Paula's funny stories about the people who visited the office, stories she told with her trademark humor and warmth.

Paula was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank R. Meredith; her father, Henry R. Hocknell, a talented artisan, accomplished gymnast, and diver; her mother, Evelyn Sayers Hocknell, whom Paula and Frank lovingly cared for in their home during her battle with Alzheimer's disease; her brother, Henry R. Hocknell Jr., a United States Marine who gave his life in Vietnam; and her sister, Edith Hocknell Robinson, who was Paula's best friend, confidante, and partner in crime until the day Edith passed away.

In November 2021, Paula moved to North Carolina, where she quickly won the hearts of everyone she met. Family, friends, neighbors, and caregivers alike often described her as "the sweetest woman ever." Her kindness knew no bounds, and her gentle spirit left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Paula courageously battled cancer beginning in 2008, facing each challenge with grace, determination, and a positive outlook that inspired those around her. Even during difficult times, she continued to put others first and never lost her caring nature.

Paula will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and her beloved grand dogs—Cooper, Marky Mark, and Otis—who always looked forward to visits with Grandma Paula.

Her legacy is one of love, kindness, laughter, generosity, and unwavering devotion to family and friends. Though our hearts are broken by her loss, we are grateful for the many years, memories, and blessings she gave us. Her love will continue to live on in the lives she touched and in the hearts of all who knew her.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, August 7, 2026, at Laughrey Funeral Home, Pennsville, New Jersey, where friends and family may call from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM prior to the service. Burial of cremains will follow at Finns Point National Cemetery in Pennsville, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, Paula requested that donations be made in her memory to the American Cancer Society of your choice, with the hope that one day no family will have to endure the battle with cancer that she courageously fought for nearly eighteen years.

Another option to honor Paula's memory is a contribution to the Paula Cheers Swim Lesson Scholarship Fund through Point Me to the Water. For more information or to donate, please visit: https://givebutter.com/paulacheers