Pauline Maureen Oxford

Pauline M. Oxford—beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother—passed away, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, warmth, and quiet strength. Known affectionately as “Subby,” she was born in Mahnomen, Minnesota, and was a proud member of the White Earth Nation. She attended St. Michael’s Catholic School and Church and graduated from Mahnomen High School class of ‘60.

In 1962, Pauline married George Oxford at St. Michael’s Church. Together, they made their home in South Maplewood, where they built a life rooted in family, hard work, and education. Over 51 years of marriage, they raised five children: Matt, Chrissy, Tracy, Jeff, and Katie.

Pauline often said that home was her favorite place, and it showed. Her door was always open and her table always welcoming. Family, friends, and the occasional unexpected visitor were greeted with generosity and care, often in the form of a home-cooked meal, a cup of coffee with half-and-half poured straight from the carton, or a Lindt truffle pulled from her well-stocked stash.

She loved traveling with her husband George, whether it was a “run up north” to visit relatives, weekends at the casino, or trips to the ocean. Pauline enjoyed quiet time in her four-season porch warmed by her wood stove reading a book. At home, she delighted in simple pleasures including real wild rice (never “that paddy rice”) and a competitive round of Jeopardy! Pauline had a deep love of reading and art, especially drawing and painting. She was sharp-witted, deeply observant, and famously stubborn—qualities her family remembers well.

In her final days, Pauline’s health had been declining. The day before she died, all of her children gathered with her for a Sunday afternoon visit. During that time, Pauline read aloud the Mother Teresa of Calcutta prayer to them—an intimate moment her family holds close.

Pauline took great pride in her growing family. She is lovingly remembered by her nine grandchildren—Jake, Alicia, Josh, George, Sam, Leo, Louise “Lulu”, Henry, and Molly—and her great-granddaughter, Vera. She followed their lives closely and spoke of them often, always with love and pride.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George; her son, Jeff; and her brother, John.

She is survived by her children Matt (Claudia Waring), Chrissy, Tracy, and Katie; her sister Charlotte Johnstad; her grandchildren and great-granddaughter; and many extended family members who will miss her dearly.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to neighbors Tom and Paula Perzichilli for years of friendship. A special thank you to the many health care professionals that provided compassionate care to Pauline over the last years of her life.

Pauline lived a full and meaningful life, rich with love, purpose, and countless cherished moments. We were deeply fortunate to call her ours.

A visitation will be held on February 10, 2026, from 9:30 am to 10:30 am at Transfiguration Catholic Church, located at 6133 15th St. N., Oakdale, MN 55128.

The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:30 am at the same location.

The committal service will take place on February 10, 2026, at 1:30 pm at Union Cemetery, 2505 Minnehaha Ave E, Maplewood, MN 55119.