Paula Evadne Bourne, born on June 1, 1951, in the vibrant heart of Georgetown, Guyana, peacefully departed this world on October 30, 2026, after a courageous battle with Dementia. Her passing was as gentle as her spirit, surrounded by the love that she unconditionally shared throughout her life.

Paula was the cherished daughter of the late Joseph Emanuel Bourne and Bernice Celestine Bourne. She was predeceased by her loving brothers, David Orin Bancroft and Richard Martin, her sister Yvette Bancroft-Fraser, and her beloved son Michael Thom. Though they have passed before her, they remain forever in our hearts.

Her legacy lives on through her children, Haslyn Thom, Carl Thom, and Michelle Thom, as well as her honorary son, Curtis Thom. Paula was also the beloved sister of Desiree Martin-Damon. Her memory will continue to inspire her six grandchildren, Haslyn Jr., Kristen, Shaquana, Fantasia, Mi-Karra, and Jeremiah, and her great-grandchild, Nylah. In addition to her immediate family, she leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who were touched by her warmth and kindness.

Paula's educational journey began at Christ Church Secondary School, where she graduated in 1970. Her thirst for knowledge led her to earn a degree in English Literature and West Indian History. She later honed her expertise in Supervisory Training at Critchlow Labour College, Computer Science at Global Technology, and Hotel Management at the prestigious Pegasus Hotel Training School/HCIMA of London.

Her professional career was marked by dedication and excellence. Paula served as a Manager and Human Resources Administrator at the Guyana Pegasus International Hotel (Le Meridian Pegasus) for an impressive 26 years. Her commitment to community service shone through her involvement with the Jaycees and her compassionate work as a senior community support staff member at Community Options, Inc., assisting individuals with developmental challenges until her retirement.

Paula was a woman of deep faith, finding solace in the Lord and joy in gospel music. Her love for reading and dancing was infectious, as was her quick wit and warm smile. She possessed an innate ability to make others feel welcome and valued, and her generosity and kindness touched countless lives.

A funeral service to honor Paula's remarkable life will be held on November 7, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Douglass Funeral Home, located at 51 Worthen Rd, Lexington, MA 02421. Visitation immediately prior to the service from 9:00am to 10:00am. Interment at Saint Bernard's Cemetery, located at 47B Bedford St., Concord, MA 01742. Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received.

Those unable to attend may join a livestream of the funeral by connecting to the following link: (To be posted here 30 minutes prior to the start of the service).

As her family reflects on her life, they share this poignant message: "Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal." Paula's love and spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.