Paula Freed

Paula was born on October 3, 1941, in Harrisburg, PA, to George and Dorothy Gainsburg. She spent her childhood in Harrisburg where her strong artistic sensibility and intellectual drive began to develop. Paula earned a BA from Moore College of Art, an MFA from Goucher College and later became a licensed psychoanalyst.

Paula worked primarily as a therapist and counselor, maintaining a respected private practice in NJ. She treated a wide range of patients, including individuals recovering from traumatic brain injuries, and approached her work with seriousness and compassion for her patients’ well-being. She also contributed to her field through articles published in professional journals.

Paula was the beloved wife of Gene Freed. They met in 1985, bonded by their shared love of classical music, and fell deeply in love after Gene spilled guacamole on her shoe. Paula and Gene married in April 1987 in Sea Bright, NJ. Together they embraced the cultural richness of NYC — frequenting theater, concerts, opera, and enjoying exceptional food and wine. Travel was a great joy for them, with many journeys to South Africa, China, Paraguay, Europe, and many other destinations. They later made their home in the Charleston, SC area before recently moving to Sarasota, FL.

Paula was incredibly creative and produced art in several different media including sculpture (unique works from marble, alabaster, and clay), fused glass, and writing (including short stories and a memoir which sadly will never be completed). She was also a great lover of classical music and opera, especially her favorite composers Wagner and Rachmaninoff, and she and Gene enjoyed watching tennis and football together.

Paula was preceded in death by her parents, George and Dorothy Gainsburg, and her brother Jerry Gainsburg, who passed away in February 2025 at the age of 90.

She is survived by and will be greatly missed by her husband Gene; her stepchildren Linda (husband Martin), Susanne (husband Ben), and David; her grandchildren Em (husband Hunter), Arthea, Jemma, Max, Jocelyn, and Sam; and her great-grandchildren Mikhail and Clementine.

Paula was spirited, determined, and tenacious. She will be remembered for her strong will, keen intellect, dry wit, and the depth with which she lived and loved.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or to a favorite charity of one’s choosing.

We will gather to honor Paula on Saturday, March 7th, at 2 pm at the Celebration of Life Center at Siesta Key, 7454 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.