Paula A. Leger

Paula A. (Riccardi) Leger, 81, of New Bedford, passed after a short illness, on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at St. Luke’s Hospital. A devoted wife, loving mother and Nana, cherished family matriarch, and beloved friend to so many, Paula leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, strength, and a lifetime of caring for others.

Born in New Bedford, Paula was a proud graduate of New Bedford High School, Class of 1963. She went on to earn her cosmetology license and pursued her passion for hairstyling, owning and operating Paula’s Beauty Salon in her home for many years. Her talent, dedication, and warm personality made her much more than a hairdresser to her clients. She often went to the homes of her clients when they were unable to come to her. Her salon was always filled with laughter and the sharing of family stories. She also served as President of the Cosmetology Association, a testament to her leadership and the respect she earned throughout her profession.

Above all else, Paula’s greatest pride and joy was her family. Married to Raymond Leger Jr. for 62 wonderful years, she was the love of his life and his devoted partner through the many seasons of their journey together. Their enduring marriage was a beautiful reflection of commitment, companionship, and love. Together, they also shared their love of music, singing in their church choir and finding joy in their faith and fellowship.

Paula was truly the matriarch of her family, the heart that held everyone together. Family was always her number one priority, and she devoted herself wholeheartedly to caring for those she loved. Whether someone needed a helping hand, a listening ear, a home-cooked meal, a safe place to stay, or simply the comfort of knowing someone was there for them, Paula was always ready to give. She lived her life through acts of service, putting the needs of others before her own and making sure every family member felt loved, supported, and cared for.

Her love extended far beyond her immediate family. Affectionately known as “Auntie Paula” to so many, she had a special way of making people feel as though they belonged. She was loving, happy, positive, and strong, with a heart of gold and a generous spirit that touched countless lives. Deeply respected and dearly loved, Paula was the kind of person people could count on, and her presence brought comfort, warmth, and happiness wherever she went.

Proud of her Italian heritage, Paula embraced the traditions that brought family together, especially around the table. She loved cooking and baking, sharing delicious food and creating memories with the people she loved. She also enjoyed traveling, spending time at the beach, and expressing her creativity through arts and crafts. For many years, she made a signature series of ornaments that she lovingly gave to family and friends on Christmas. Paula had a special flair for style and glamour, always beautifully dressed and accessorized with her signature decorative jewelry and scarves. Her elegant appearance reflected the vibrant personality and confidence she carried throughout her life.

Nothing brought Paula greater happiness than her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. And in return, her light and love filled their lives with joy. Her love, wisdom, and unwavering devotion will live on in the values she instilled, the traditions she preserved, and the countless memories she created with those who were fortunate enough to know her and be loved by her.

Paula’s life was a testament to the power of love in action. She had extreme faith as a member of St. Mary’s church and believed that every deed added to the steps of her ladder to heaven. She gave freely, loved deeply, and made caring for others her life’s work.

Though her passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of her beloved husband, family, and friends, the love she shared will continue to unite them. Her legacy will live on in every family gathering, every cherished recipe, every act of kindness, and every memory of her beautiful smile and unmistakable style.

Paula will forever be remembered as a devoted wife, a loving family matriarch, a proud Italian woman, and the beloved Auntie Paula whose heart had room for everyone. She was truly one of a kind, and she will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of all who knew her.

In addition to her husband, Raymond, she is survived by her loving children, Steven Leger and fiancé Reanna of Cape Cod, Christine Bravo of FL, and Amy Gaudette and husband Jason of Attleboro; grandchildren, Jessica Lavalley, Kathryn Stum, Jonathan Leger, Lily Gaudette, and Giovanna Gaudette; great-grandchildren, Ava Leger, Benjamin Lavalley, and Megan Lavalley; brothers, Steven Riccardi and wife Marsha of RI, Michael Riccardi and wife Jean of New Bedford, Patrick Riccardi of New Bedford, and David Riccardi and wife Lysa of Marion. She was the sister of the late Teresa Perry.

Her visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 28, 2026 from 4:00pm to 7:00pm in the ROCK FUNERAL HOME, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford, MA 02745. Her funeral mass will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026 at 10:00am in St. Gabriel of the Archangel Church, 343 Tarkiln Hill Rd., New Bedford. Everyone is to go directly to church. Following the Mass, everyone is invited to the Senhor da Pedra Club, 81 Tinkham St. New Bedford, for a luncheon at 11:30am.

In-lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to Look Good Feel Better, an organization dedicated to restoring the confidence and self-esteem of people during cancer treatments which she cared deeply for and dedicated her beauty expertise to for decades.

For on-line tributes, visit our website at www.rock-funeralhome.com