Paula W.

Hempel

Paula W. Hempel, a dedicated educator and advocate who spent her life lifting up others, passed away peacefully at home in the care of her daughter and cherished friends on Thursday, October 22, 2026. She was 80 years old.

Born with a fierce intellect and an unshakeable compassion, Paula dedicated her career to social services and community support. Her professional legacy was defined by her impactful work at the Antrim Girls' Shelter and her dedicated service at Frisbie Memorial Hospital. A lifelong lover of language and deep cultural exploration, she earned her B.A. in English from Franklin Pierce College and later achieved an M.A. in Feminist Studies from Goddard-Cambridge.

She leaves behind her devoted daughter and only child, Jonell V. Rezza (Roy), and her son-in-law, Christopher M. Rezza, who built a beautiful sanctuary for her and stood by her side as her protectors and caretakers throughout her long journey. She is also survived by her loving circle of friends, including her close friend Gabrielle and love Sally, and the many lives she quietly transformed through her advocacy, mentorship, and kindness.

She was greeted in peace on the other side by her beloved dogs Bobby McGee and Mack, who predeceased her and are looking forward to a nice walk.

A formal celebration of Paula’s beautiful life will be held in the spring, when the New England landscape returns to bloom.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Paula’s honor to the Best Friends Animal Society at bestfriends.org to support her lifelong love for companion animals and ensure every pet finds a safe, loving home.

Cremation Society of NH, Boscawen office, is assisting the family with arrangements. To view an online memorial, leave a message of condolence, or for more information please visit www.csnh.com.