Paula (Helie) Gerardi

Paula was born in Worcester, the daughter of Joseph and Norma (Provost) Helie and has lived here all her life. Paula worked more than 25 years for the College of the Holy Cross before retiring.

She is survived by her husband of more than 45 years, Donald P. Gerardi, Sr; a son, David A. Hamilton Jr. of Los Angeles; two daughters, Cathy M. Hamilton of North Grafton, Kim L. Bodell and her husband Richard of Yorba Linda, Calif; two stepsons, Donald P. Gerardi, Jr. of Spencer and Anthony W. Gerardi of Worcester;  three grandchildren, Richard W. Drake, III, Joseph S. Drake, and Travis D. Drake; nine great grandchildren, Taylor, Caden, Dylan, Brody, Brayden, Kylie, Brixton, Kaleb and Kasey; Many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Paula also leaves her sisters whom were incredibly special to her, she cherished the countless times she could spend with them enjoying each other’s company, Judith A. McCarthy, and Kathleen R. Damato both of Grafton, and Karen McCarthy of Worcester. A brother, Joseph Helie passed away in 1976, and a sister, Janet Lee Lucey in 2015.

A woman, who enjoyed her home and the simple pleasures of life, spending time with her family and sisters, traveling as often as she could to California to see her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. One of her favorite past times was playing bingo.

Paula’s celebration of life will be held Saturday, September 10^th with a period to honor and remember Paula from 9:30 am to 10:30 am followed by a prayer service at 10:30 in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. Burial will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances in her name can be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer institute, 450 Brookline Ave, Boston, 02115.