Paula Devine

Paula C. Devine passed away peacefully at the age of 78 in Newtown, CT after a courageous battle with colon cancer. She was born on June 4, 1948 in New London, CT to the late Hilding and Elsie Carlson. She was married to James ‘Jim’ Devine for 35 years until his passing in 2024.

Paula worked as a school secretary at Harbor School in New London, CT for 20 years, retiring in 2004. The role that meant the most to her was raising her three children and later spending time with her grandchildren. Her family meant everything to her. Independent by nature, she rarely asked them for help even when she was caretaker for her late husband.

Paula’s favorite times were spent at the beach whether it was Ocean Beach Park in New London or White Sand Beach in Old Lyme where she lived for the last 35 years. She loved traveling to Vermont to spend occasional weekends, often hosting friends and family. She enjoyed attending local art festivals, farmers markets and concerts. Her family has fond memories of enjoying lobster rolls at Captain Scott’s with her each summer.

In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by her sister Carol Hass and her brother Bernard ‘Bud’ Carlson.

Paula is survived by her children Kristin Galletta (Hugo) of Newtown, CT; Alissa Burchfield of Port Orange, FL and David Burchfield, Jr of Colchester, CT; their father Bill Burchfield of Waterford, CT; Jim’s children Michael Devine (Stephanie) and James Devine; her grandchildren Gabi and Philip Galletta; Alena, Michael and Zander Burns; Brooke and Cadence Burchfield; Hannah, Zachary and Emma Devine and many nieces and nephews.

Paula’s family would like to thank Regional Hospice of Danbury for helping in her final days. Her entire team was a pleasure to work with.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Friends Of Harkness State Park (Waterford, CT) or Regional Hospice of Danbury.