Paula E. (Hoyen) Butler

Paula E. Butler, 79 years of age, of Worcester, MA, passed away on Friday, May 9, 2025 with her loving family by her side.

Paula was born in Worcester, the daughter of Paul and Margaret (Hoyen) Hoyen of Worcester. She graduated from Commerce High School in Worcester. Selected from a competitive group of her peers at Commerce High to participate in a special work apprenticeship program, Paula launched a 20 year career at Mechanics Bank where she rose from teller to managerial roles within the bank. She always spoke with love and respect for her Mechanics Bank colleagues and customers, many of whom remained dear friends to this day. Paula transitioned to her most rewarding role of mother and homemaker in 1983 with the birth of her son.

Paula was predeceased by her husband of 55 years, George H. Butler, just three weeks earlier this year. She is survived by her son Eric A. Butler of Worcester. She also leaves a sister and brother-in-law, Joyce and Armand Thienel of Worcester; and nieces and nephews.

Paula was a dedicated and loving wife and mother. She derived tremendous satisfaction from caring for her loved ones whether that meant keeping a comfortable home, cooking delicious meals, or hosting holidays for friends and family. She showed a strong commitment to volunteerism, particularly in education. Paula was always the first to sign up for a class field trip, organize a bake sale or book fair, or rally for the preservation of local branch libraries. She served as the Treasurer of the Parent Teacher Association at West Tatnuck Elementary School in the Worcester Public School system and even found ways to volunteer while her son was at Saint John’s High School, including being one of the school’s Spring Spectacular “sewing moms” despite her limited sewing abilities. Nothing brought Paula more pleasure than a long day on the beach with family and friends, seeing a Broadway show with her son, and in her later years, just a simple daily coffee outing with her husband.

There will be a calling hour, Friday, May 16, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. in the Athy Memorial Home, 111 Lancaster St., Worcester. A funeral service will follow at 9:30 a.m. in the funeral home followed by a joint burial of both Paula and her husband George in Hope Cemetery, Worcester.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint John’s High School, The Saint John’s Fund, 378 Main Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, www.stjohnshigh.org.