Paula Jane Tomasi

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Paula Jane Tomasi on February 28, 2025, at the age of 73. Paula was a beloved sister, friend, mother, aunt, and nana. Born on June 26, 1951, in Lynn, Massachusetts, she had a love for travel and a gift for making people feel seen, heard, and valued. On any sunny summer day, she could be found moving rocks, embracing the outdoors with her characteristic energy.

Paula was never afraid to offer words of encouragement, lend a helping hand, or simply sit and listen. She was courageous, compassionate, and unwavering in her pursuit of justice, loving unconditionally. Her positive, tenacious spirit was a driving force in her many successes.

Paula earned her degree in education from the University of Miami in 1974 before moving to Houston, TX, where she completed her master's degree. Not long after, her unshakable determination led her to start a business, taking risks and raising three daughters in the process.

Her deep commitment to the community and love for children led Paula to serve on the school board for over 10 years. Even in her retirement, that passion never waned, and she continued to give back, culminating in a rewarding tenure on the Nassau Bay City Council.

Despite all her accomplishments, Paula's greatest joy was her two grandsons. She would often sit on the couch, humming as she read her newspaper, when suddenly, her grandsons would run in, shouting, "Nana!" There was no greater expression of joy, happiness, unconditional love, and peace on Paula's face than when she was surrounded by her boys.

Paula is preceded in death by her daughter Kim Tomasi, her sister Arleen Vallone, and her mother Betty Dempsey. She is survived by her four siblings—Linda Dempsey, David Dempsey, Jane Adams, and Patti Dempsey—her two daughters, Katherine Tomasi and Liz Franzen, her son-in-law, Chris Franzen, and her two grandsons, Harrison and Preston Franzen, and a large extended family.

Though Paula may no longer be with us, her kindness, laughter, and warmth will forever echo in our hearts.

The family of Paula Tomasi warmly invites you to a Celebration of Life in her honor on Saturday, March 29th, from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM at Paula’s home. This will be a drop-in gathering, offering an opportunity to share memories, connect with loved ones, and celebrate Paula’s remarkable life.

At 3:30 PM, we will walk together to Swan Lagoon Park to dedicate the Little Library—a special gift given to Paula for Christmas in memory of her late daughter, Kim Tomasi.

In tribute to Paula’s love of learning and community, we invite you to bring a new or gently used book to donate to the Little Library. Your contribution will help continue her legacy of sharing knowledge and kindness.

We hope you will join us in remembering Paula and the beautiful life she led.

In lieu of flowers, please donate blood in her memory or make donations to Bay Area Communities and Schools, PO Box 580096, Houston, Texas 77258.