Paula Tilley Floyd

Paula Tilley Floyd, 54, of Durham, North Carolina, passed away on March 6, 2026. Born and raised in Durham, Paula was a lifelong member of the community she loved and a bright presence in the lives of everyone who knew her. Paula worked as a self-employed housekeeper, but those who knew her best would say her true work in life was caring for people. She had a gift for making others feel welcome, valued, and loved. To Paula, family was never limited to blood—it included anyone lucky enough to cross her path. She is survived by her loving husband, Frank Floyd; her two sons, Dillon and Dale, who were the center of her world; her mother, Donna Coltrane; her sister, Wendy Stocking (Greg); and her sister-in-love, Dawn Tilley; and bonus mom, Sharon Tilley. Paula was preceded in death by her brother, Stan Tilley; her father, Donald Tilley; her nephew, Caleb Stocking, and her bonus dad, Wesley Coltrane.

Paula loved life in a way that was impossible to ignore. Whether she was cheering loudly from the sidelines at a sporting event, laughing with her Bible study friends, or gathering with family—both blood and chosen—she showed up fully and joyfully. If there was a dance floor, Paula was on it. If there was a board game, she was playing it. Wherever she was, she became the center of the moment, bringing energy, laughter, and light with her. She had a remarkable ability to keep the joy going, even when life was heavy. No matter how she was feeling, Paula put others first and carried a spirit that lifted the entire room. Her warmth, laughter, and vibrant personality left an imprint on everyone she met. Paula will be remembered as the brightest light in any room—a woman whose love, laughter, and spirit could turn ordinary moments into unforgettable ones. Her absence leaves a space that can never truly be filled, but the joy she spread and the love she gave will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her family finds comfort in knowing that the love she poured into the world lives on through the people she raised, the friendships she cherished, and the countless lives she touched. She will forever be loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. at 5783 Moore's Mill Rd. Rougemont, NC 27572.