Paula Geller Guthertz

Paula Guthertz (Geller), age 75, of Howard Beach, New York, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025, after a long and brave battle with lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma. She was born on February 5, 1950.

Paula’s life was centered around her family, whom she loved fiercely and unconditionally. She was a devoted mother, a proud and adoring grandmother, and a steady, loving presence to those fortunate enough to know her. Her strength and deep devotion to her children and grandchildren defined her life.

Paula struggled greatly with her illness and the limitations it brought. She often kept to herself, but still enjoyed talking on the phone with loved ones and relaxing with her favorite shows on Bravo and the Home Shopping Club.

She is survived by her beloved children, Allison (Nick) Melahouris and Adam (Alice) Guthertz. She was the cherished grandmother of Emma Guthertz (18), Peter Guthertz (14), and Nicholas Melahouris (7), each of whom brought her tremendous joy and pride. Paula also shared a special bond with the family’s beloved dog, Kody, who held a dear place in her heart.

Paula was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Jeanette Geller.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that a donation be made to the charity of your choice or, in Paula’s memory, to support the Oncology Department through the Jamaica Hospital Foundation, in gratitude for the care that was made possible there.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the Oncology team at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. Special thanks to Dr. Cervantes for Paula’s cancer care in her earlier years, and to Dr. Ali Ameri, whose extraordinary bedside manner, compassion, and unwavering support for both Paula and her family were truly unmatched. Though Paula chose not to seek care in the city, she received a level of treatment and humanity at Jamaica Hospital that exceeded anything the family ever imagined possible.

The family would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to the caregivers at Anchor Home Care, who tended with such compassion and grace, and to the incredible team at Hospice of New York for their kindness, guidance, and support during this difficult time.

Paula will be remembered for her quiet strength, her devotion to her family, and the lasting love she leaves behind. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

A visitation will be held at Schwartz Brothers-Jeffer Memorial Chapels, located at 114-03 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375, on December 2, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

The funeral service is scheduled for December 3, 2025, at 11:30 am, also at Schwartz Brothers-Jeffer Memorial Chapels.

Following the funeral service, a committal service will take place at Montefiore Cemetery, located at 121-83 Springfield Blvd, New York, NY 11413, on December 3, 2025, at 1:00 pm.