Paula Rose Eleanor (Peters) McIlduff

Paula Rose Eleanor (Peters) McIlduff passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 24, 2025 in her beloved home. She was predeceased by her parents, Paul and Christine (Megaro) Peters; her brother, Michael Peters and her sister, Eleanor Peters. She is survived by her daughter, Kristyn McIlduff; her granddaughters, Maryssa Morgan and Alani Estrada; her sister, Geraldine Sullivan and her husband Tim; her brother, Bob Peters and his wife Pam; her sister-in-law, Jeannette Peters and all her nieces and nephews of whom she was very proud. In addition, Paula is survived by many friends and neighbors, including her lifelong friend, Sheila Lamenzo from Holy Trinity High School.

Paula was known to be an exemplary employee, working at G. Fox & Co, Aetna Life Insurance and finally the Office of Claims Commissioner, where her level of dedication was legendary. Always the first person at work, she took great pride in a job well done and set an example for all to see. Her humility and kindness in life was only surpassed by her loyalty to her friends, family and work colleagues.

Paula found pleasure in the simple and thoughtful gestures that filled her days. Her 6:00 a.m. phone calls on your birthday ensured that she was the first to speak with you on your special day, although her birthday card typically arrived in the mail precisely one day before, always with a loving note and scratchie ticket enclosed. Your only requirement was to report back on the money you won with the lottery tickets. Her vivacious interactions with strangers often included the gifting of a lottery ticket and a big smile.

Paula was a law-abiding patriot throughout her life, missing her calling as a law enforcement official. Her red, white and blue outfits on July 4th were legendary, and the rest of the family would try to match her outfit, but she was rarely outdone. Her love of tradition, her country and her family were always evident.

Paula had a special relationship with her two granddaughters, Maryssa and Alani. She embraced the role of Mima and spent much of her life ensuring their happiness. Paula was extremely thankful for the love and attention that Kristyn gave her the past several years, allowing her to stay in her house on Skyline Drive that she called home for 49 years. Having a safe and happy place with sidewalks and good schools for her family was something she took great pride in.

Paula’s life was not easy. Obstacles and disappointments came her way more than she deserved. But throughout her life, she was able to find positive threads to be thankful for. Her pride in the accomplishments of her friends and family was deep and genuine, always wishing the best for everyone around her without an ounce of jealousy. She played the hand she was dealt with a smile and a kind word for those around her. She made the people around her better with her unflinching love and support.

Calling hours will be Thursday, August 28 from 9:30-11 a.m. concluding with a Prayer Service at 11 a.m. in the D’Esopo Funeral Chapel, 277 Folly Brook Boulevard, Wethersfield. Burial will follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in Paula’s memory be made to the American Indian College Fund, 8333 Greenwood Boulevard, #120, Denver, CO 80221 or online at https://collegefund.org/. To share a memory of Paula, please visit www.desopofuneralchapel.com