Paula E. Kahakalau

Kahakalau, Paula E. (Hartrey) of Quincy, passed peacefully on August 30, 2024 in her home loved by family and friends. 

Daughter of Ruth (Cavanaugh) Hartrey of Quincy and the late Daniel Hartrey. Beloved mother of Joyce Kahakalau of Quincy. Sister of Daniel Hartrey of Eliot, ME, Ann Betts of Newmarket, NH and David Hartrey of Bridgewater, MA 

Paula was a remarkable woman of dedication and strength. Growing up in Braintree and attending Catholic schools, she developed a sense of duty and fortitude that would help her later in life. Juggling the responsibilities of being a single mother while working hard is no small feat, and yet she managed to do it all. Raising her daughter alone through her resilience, dedication and determination, which only cultivated her strong work ethic. 

Her commitment to causes like saving the Lightship Nantucket and fighting against the compressor station showed her deep sense of community and a desire to make a difference. Enjoying time with friends and following the New England Patriots also paints a picture of someone who values both social connections and local traditions. She lead a well-rounded life, blending her personal interests with her community involvement. Even after her diagnosis, Paula continued to maintain her own yard and be active in her neighborhood. Paula's life is a testament to her intelligence, independence and lasting impact she had on those around her. She was truly a woman ahead of her time and she will be missed by all those who were fortunate enough to have known her. 

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Sept. 9th Monday from 10 AM-12PM in the Keohane Funeral Home, 785 Hancock St., Quincy. There will be a book to share memories, personal messages and say goodbyes to her. A celebration of life service will be held on Monday, Sept. 9th at 12 PM in Keohane Funeral Home, Quincy. Burial in Mt. Wollaston Cemetery, Quincy.  Followed by a gathering at Fox & Hound in Quincy.

Donations in memory Paula may be made to Fore River Residents Against the Compressor Station, Nocompressor.com or American Cancer Society of Massachusetts, 38 Chauncy St., Suite 700, Boston, MA 02111.