Paula Patricia Beatty

On April 3, 2025, Paula Patricia Beatty (nee Reahl), departed this earthly life and entered the Kingdom of her Lord. She passed peacefully in her home, exactly where she wished to be. The days preceding her death were a true gift full of visits, calls, prayers, song, and so much love from her family and friends. She was 89.
Paula was born on November 26, 1935, in Baltimore, Maryland. Her early years were rooted there, where she attended Seton High School before pursuing her calling in healthcare at St. Agnes School of Nursing. Her education laid the foundation for a life marked by dedication to her family, her work, her faith and her community.
For over four decades, Paula was known throughout her community as the friendly and reliable "Avon Lady", building lasting relationships with countless customers through her warmth and commitment. In addition to her Avon career, she was co-owner of Better Lettering, where she brought creativity and care to every project. In "Paula fashion" these jobs were avenues that forged lifelong friendships with so many.
Faith was the foundation of Paula's life. As a devout Roman Catholic, she was an active member of St. Clement's Church and School in Lansdowne for many years. After relocating to the Eastern Shore of MD in the late 90's, she became an active member of Our Mother of Sorrows Church in Centreville. Her involvement extended beyond worship, as she gave generously of her time as a volunteer within the parish community. She was extremely devoted to the Blessed Mother Mary, and faithfully prayed the Rosary daily. Paula lived out Christ's calling every single day of her life.
Paula found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her love of music took her to many shows as well as live concerts. She loved the ocean and the beach and enjoyed the many that she visited. She had a love for gardening and took special delight in watching birds grace her yard, the hummingbird being her favorite. Paula loved nature and had a deep appreciation for God's creations. Paula had an absolute love of lighthouses. She collected them. She visited them. She was the embodiment of a lighthouse, being the light and rock for her family. Also a passionate sports enthusiast, Paula loyally cheered for the Baltimore Orioles and Ravens, and followed Notre Dame football with enthusiasm. She enjoyed both women's and men's college sports, as well as women's professional basketball. Most of all she enjoyed supporting her kids and grandkids at their own sporting events. She was also very passionate about her Irish heritage, her grandparents being direct immigrants.
But, what mattered most to Paula was people. Her life was filled with many, many friends, and time spent with them was always precious to her. To know her was to love her. Her welcoming smile, her joyful spirit, quick wit and fun nature will be greatly missed by so many.
Family was at the heart of Paula's world. There is no doubt her calling in life was to be a Mother, and she was the best a child could wish for. She will be forever loved, remembered, and deeply missed by her beloved children: Theresa A. Beatty, Timothy J. Beatty, Beth A. Francis and her husband Brian J. Francis, and daughter-in-law Brenda Beatty. Her legacy will live on through her cherished grandchildren, who she adored more than words can express: Ashley N. Bees and her husband Steven M. Bees, Taylor L. Beatty, Braelyn K. Francis, Brileigh D. Francis, and Zoey N. Beatty. She is also survived by her brother James H. Dodson, Sr.
Paula now dwells in the Kingdom of her Lord, at peace and lovingly reunited with many of her beloved family who went before her: husband Donald H. Beatty Sr.; son Donald H. Beatty Jr.; grandson (TJ) Timothy J. Beatty II; mother Mary C. Dodson; father Conrad H. Reahl; mother-in-law Mary M. Beatty; her beloved grandparents Maurice and Hannah Bransfield; and many very, cherished, lifelong friends.
Paula's final act of giving came upon her death. She donated her body to Anatomy Gifts Registry for the advancement of medical science and education. Paula's gift has left a lasting impact on humankind, and is a testament to the life of an amazing human being.
In honor of Paula's memory and in keeping with causes close to her heart, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at https://www.stjude.org/.
May cherished memories of Paula be a source of comfort to all who knew and loved her. May her legacy of faith, family devotion, and joyful spirit continue to inspire all whose lives she touched. Honor her life and keep her memory alive by living as she would, with kindness and Faith. Think of her when you see a hummingbird or a lighthouse.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on October 25, 2025, 10:30 AM at Our Mother Of Sorrows Catholic Church, 303 Chesterfield Avenue, Centreville, MD. Immediately following Mass, a Reception will be held at Symphony Village Clubhouse, 100 Symphony Way, Centreville, MD. Please bring your stories and memories to share.
Interment will be private at a later date.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Paula Patricia Beatty, please visit our flower store.