In Loving Memory of Edna Mary Paul (née Boyde)

24 May 1936 – 16 September 2026

It is with profound sadness and deep love that the family of Edna Mary Paul (née Boyde) announces her peaceful passing at her home in Gambo, Newfoundland and Labrador, on 16 September 2026, at the age of 90.

Edna leaves to mourn her beloved husband of 69 years, Chesley Paul; her son, Perry Paul (Lillian); her daughters, Wanda Russell (Robert) and Dawn Church (Thomas); her grandchildren, Ryan, Sabrina, Kimberly, Kerry, Kasandra, Mahri, and Aaron; and her eight great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents, Stanley and Dulcie Boyde of Bridgeport, Newfoundland and Labrador, and by her 11 siblings. Edna was the youngest child of Stanley and Dulcie.

Throughout her life, Edna’s remarkable creativity and determination were evident in everything she did. She operated a general store and bakery, where her warmth and talents became part of the life of her community. A gifted artist, baker, seamstress, and quilter, she made embroidered Hudson Bay coats, quilts, crafts, Christmas ornaments, special-occasion and designer cakes, flowers, and floral arrangements.

Edna shared her gifts generously. She taught others to sew and designed and made clothing for weddings and other special occasions. She also loved gardening and took great pride in growing beautiful flowers and tomatoes at the farm greenhouses. Her artistry was matched by her ability to encourage people, and she inspired many to discover and develop talents of their own.

Edna was a loving mother and friend and a devoted wife. Full of life, she brightened every room she entered. Clever, loving, and strong, she knew how to enjoy life and how to make others laugh, even in the most difficult circumstances. She was truly one of a kind and can never be replaced.

Her love for Chesley remained constant until her final moments. Whenever he entered the room, her face would light up with a beautiful smile, and she would immediately ask him for a kiss. That enduring affection reflected the loving partnership they shared over nearly seven decades.

Edna’s love, laughter, strength, and creativity will live on in the family she cherished, in the people she inspired, and in the many beautiful things she created with her hands and heart. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

The family extends its heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Edna’s home care workers and management from Horwood’s Home Care and Compassion Home Care for the kindness, compassion, and dedicated care they provided to her in her home over the past two years.

Visitation and Funeral Arrangements will take place at Pritchett’s Funeral Home in Gambo on Friday, 18 September 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held at Emmanuel United Church in Gambo on Saturday, 19 September 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Emmanuel United Church Cemetery fund or the Gambo Lions Club.