Celia Maria Medeiros Paula

Célia was born in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, to Alice Maria and her stepfather, Silvério Medeiros. She was raised in the Jardim Paulista district of the capital, where she attended Catholic schools throughout most of her education, a reflection of her mother’s deep faith.

From a young age, Célia displayed a strong sense of independence and commitment. She began her professional journey as an administrative assistant and chose to remain in her beloved hometown even after her parents relocated. In 1977, she joined the University of São Paulo’s nuclear energy institute as an executive assistant, a role that not only marked a new chapter in her career but also introduced her to her future husband, Henrique Paula, then a graduate student.

In 1979, Célia and Henrique married and moved to Tennessee, where they built the family she had always dreamed of. She often described her early years of motherhood as the most fulfilling time of her life, a period filled with purpose, love, and joy. She poured her heart into every detail of family life, sewing clothes, giving haircuts, cooking homemade meals, and creating a home brimming with warmth and care. Célia was intentional in raising her daughters, Daniela and Larissa, with strong values, teaching good manners, kindness, and self-respect. A firm believer in education, she worked tirelessly to ensure they had every opportunity to learn, excel, and become independent, accomplished women.

They relocated to The Woodlands, Texas in 1999 and later celebrated the arrival of their grandchildren: Christopher Giovanni and Gabriella Marie, whom Célia adored deeply. The couple spent four years on expatriate assignments in Asia and Middle East. Célia’s time living overseas reflected her lifelong love of languages and fascination with other cultures. Whether settling into life in Singapore or Dubai, she embraced new customs with curiosity, warmth, and grace. She took joy in learning from others, forming meaningful connections, and experiencing the richness of everyday life in unfamiliar places. These years abroad became a natural extension of her open heart and adventurous spirit, adding new dimensions to the wisdom and stories she lovingly shared with those around her.

She is an inspiration to everyone that life is about sharing joy, growing together, and always showing kindness to all. A courageous hero with a smile that lives on… During the brave two-year battle with inoperable pancreatic cancer, Célia reflected often on the blessings of her life: her joyful childhood, her steady and loving marriage, and the deep love she shared with her daughters and grandchildren. Even in her final chapter, her compassion endured. She expressed concern for children facing similar hardships without the comfort and resources she was fortunate to have.

In honor of her generous heart, Célia’s family invites donations in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.