Paula Cooney

Paula was a strong, determined, gracious, deeply empathetic, and kind soul, beloved by all who knew her. To meet her was to know her and to know her was to love her.

She taught children and young adults with special needs and put herself through college by serving in the National Guard for 20 years, retiring as a Tech Sgt. in 2007. She taught herself graphic design and turned it into a career of over 20 years at Harvard University, and volunteered her time generously for a number of causes, including as a foster kitten mom. Of all her many accomplishments, her absolute favorite was being a mom to her beautiful daughter, Autumn. Her family, many friends, and colleagues will miss her contagious warmth and authenticity forever.

She is survived by her husband Matthew R. Cooney and their daughter Autumn Cooney of Duxbury, her siblings David Telch of Holbrook, Liz Bognanno and her husband Mike of Rockland, and Greg Telch of Randolph, as well as her in-laws, Vin and Nancy Cooney, Dave and Jill Cooney, niece Addy, and nephews Jack, Owen, Evan, Reece, and Sebastian Cooney, all of Duxbury, mother-in-law Mary Cooney, of Humarock, extensive family on her mother’s side, and beloved cats, Maggie and Josie. She is predeceased by her mother, Lois Telch, of Holbrook. 

A private celebration of her life will take place Saturday, March 4th. In lieu of flowers please make donations in her memory to the Standish Humane Society, 622 Congress Street Duxbury, MA, 02332.