Paula was born in Atlanta on September 2, 1940 to Paul and Lila Seepe, the younger sibling to sister Sara. After graduating high school, Paula attended Emory University in Atlanta. She married in 1959 and had three children – Charles, Mark, and Judith.
The family moved to Key West, FL just after Christmas 1966. While raising three young children in Key West, Paula held several jobs, at times two or three simultaneously, including ticket sales at the Conch Tour Train, where she would meet the love of her life, Odilio “Olie” Rodriguez, who worked there as a driver and tour guide.
Paula and Olie were married in March 1971. Shortly thereafter Paula began her career with the Monroe County government, servicing Key West and the Florida Keys, where she was promoted to County Human Resources Director in 1976. She served in that position for 20 years, at which time she and Olie retired to Brooksville, FL. They lived in Brooksville for nine years, until Olie passed away in September 2005, having been married for over 34 years.
Paula left Brooksville in early 2006, first living with her son Mark and his family in Peachtree City, GA, then in her own home in South Florida, near daughter Judi and son Charles, until her passing on May 9, 2018.
Paula will always be remembered for her compassion and silent strength. She was very charitable and loved all types of music, and animals, including her own pets and those belonging to the family. She was happiest when spending time with family, and the sentiment was returned tenfold. She was, and always will be, beloved by family and friends alike, as evidenced by the 300+ attendees at her Monroe County retirement party.
She is survived by her sister Sara “Sally” Stott, children Charles Acheson (Elizabeth), Mark Acheson (Mercedes), and Judith Angels (Carlos), stepson Richard Rodriguez, and grandchildren Maria and Alexandra Acheson, and Carlos and Talia Angels. We, her family, adore her more than words can say, and can only hope to continue her legacy of putting others ahead of oneself. Our hearts swell with pride and love just to be able to say she was our mom, and we credit her for any and all of our admirable qualities. She was an example not only to us, but anyone who was fortunate enough to be touched by her smile, warmth, and gentle spirit.
Because of her faith, mom always knew she'd be with Olie again someday. So while we miss hear dearly in this life, we are comforted to know that she and Olie are sharing the happiest kind of reunion – the forever kind!
Like Olie, Paula has requested cremation, and no formal service. Instead, she wished that everyone remember her for the happy times we all shared with her, and there were certainly many. To that end, please sign the online guest book, and share comments, stories, and photos. And in lieu of flowers or gifts, Paula and the family request a donation be made in her name to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.
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