Paula (McLennan) Foley

 Visiting hours will be held Wednesday (12/4) evening from 3-6 PM followed by a celebration of life from 6-7 at the Alexander F. Thomas and Sons Funeral Home 45 Common Street Walpole, relatives and friends invited.  At the family's request, if anyone is sending flowers, they ask that you consider their family friend (A Bella Mia Flowers in Norwood 781-762-0000)

Paula (McLennan) Foley, lovingly known to all simply as Paula, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on November 28, 2024, after a courageous five-year battle with cancer. Born on December 7, 1960, in Boston, Massachusetts, and raised in Norwood, Paula's life was marked by her unwavering kindness and the joy she brought to everyone around her.

Paula's journey began as a proud graduate of Norwood High School, Class of 1979. Her devotion to family was evident early on as she chose to stay home and care for her children, a role she cherished deeply. Once her children were older, Paula embarked on a career at Baystate Federal Savings Bank, where she excelled as a Head Teller for over a decade. Her colleagues remember her as a friendly and dedicated professional who always greeted customers with a warm smile.

Paula's heart was always fullest when surrounded by her beloved family. She was the cherished wife of Gerry Foley and the former wife of the late John Houston Sr. A devoted mother, she leaves behind her children Bryanna Lydon, John Houston Jr. and his wife Jackie, Nicolas Houston and his wife Jenna, Lyndsey Alyn, and Heather Fahey and her husband Kevin. Paula's role as "Nannie" to her grandchildren Ryan, Sani, Ava, Alex, Elly, Reese, Sawyer, Charlie, Gracie, Hope, Frankie, and P.J. was one she embraced with every fiber of her being. Her playful spirit and loving guidance will forever be etched in their memories.

Paula was a beloved sister to Jerry Sypek and is predeceased by her brothers Scott and Paul Sypek and sister-in-law to Jim Foley and his wife, Denise; Dave Foley and his wife, Sheryl. She will be deeply missed by her numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, and a host of friends who were touched by her friendly, kindhearted and quick-witted nature.

Beyond her family commitments, Paula loved life's simple pleasures. She found solace in the rhythmic sounds of the ocean at the beach and the quiet concentration of assembling puzzles. Her grandchildren will fondly recall the joy of spending time with their Nannie, especially during movie nights accompanied by popcorn and Paula's favorite BBQ Fritos—a snack she was known to hide from Gerry.

Family trips to Cape Cod when her children were young and holidays spent savoring prime rib with her loved ones were moments Paula treasured. Christmas held a special place in her heart, a time when everything was adorned in her favorite color, red. Paula's love for music was diverse, from the soothing melodies of Barry Manilow to the country twang of Shania Twain and the energetic beats of Huey Lewis and 90's music—a collection of CDs always at the ready for a family sing-along.

Paula's legacy is one of love and kindness, a friendly soul who made the world a brighter place for those who had the privilege of knowing her. She faced life's challenges with grace and reminded us all of the power of love and the importance of family.

As we say goodbye to Paula, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life filled with laughter, compassion, and an unyielding love that will continue to inspire those she has left behind. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, and the memories shared will be cherished for generations to come. Paula's life was a testament to the beauty that can be found in the everyday moments, and her presence will be profoundly missed.

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