Paula Marie DeBenedetto

Paula Marie (Sinkiewicz) DeBenedetto passed away on September 21, 2023 near her beautiful home in Carolina Shores, North Carolina. She has moved on to reconnect with her mother, Corinne Reda; her father, Richard Sinkiewicz; her grandparents; and many other loved ones. She is survived by her daughter, Mindy DeBenedetto; her brothers, Jeffrey and Christopher Sinkiewicz; her sista friend, Michelle Romano; and many beloved family members and friends.

Paula spent much of her life on Long Island, New York until, just over four years ago, she took the brave step to retire to a new home in North Carolina, to a beachside town that called to her because of its charm, sandy shores, and sea turtles. That courageous spirit carried her through her final weeks, when she made the powerful decision to stop treatment and live her life the way she wanted to. At every turn, Paula followed her bliss, just like she encouraged so many others to do in her 63 years.

Love and laughter accompanied Paula everywhere she went, from the coastline of Sunset Beach to the cobblestoned streets of Italy. She carried joy into every situation, and she found happiness in the simple things – grooving on the dance floor, exploring new cities, singing to Elton John, enjoying the serene views from her back patio, and connecting with her loved ones. More than anything else, she is remembered for how authentically she engaged with every person she met. How quickly and genuinely she connected with others was inimitable, and she will continue to live on in the many lives she touched with her warmth, her honesty, and her kindness.

Paula’s presence in the world was larger than life for so many, but it was her relationship with her daughter, Mindy, that is the greatest tribute to who she was as a person and to the lasting impact she will have. They shared a unique bond as both mother and daughter and as best friends. The positivity, strength, and heart that was so integral to Paula’s being remains in the world through her daughter.

Celebration of Life events will be held in both of the places Paula called home: North Carolina on November 11, 2023 and Long Island on June 1, 2024. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of the causes that were most important to Paula: Be the Light Campaign and local sea turtle conservation. She served as a Board member for Be the Light Campaign, an organization dedicated to mental health advocacy, and she found joy in watching the baby sea turtles emerge from their nests and take their first journey into the ocean.

Paula is dancing her heart out to eternal peace and bliss until we can meet with her again. To feel her close by, turn up the tunes and put on your dancing shoes!

For details about her services and ways to donate to her favorite causes, please visit https://everloved.com/life-of/paula-debenedetto/.

White Funeral and Cremation Service, Shallotte Chapel