Paula Ilene Rapuano

Paula Ilene Rapuano (née Hayes), of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at her home in the early morning hours of Tuesday, March 31, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 80 years old. Paula was born on August 11, 1945, in Oklahoma to William and Ora Hayes, the beloved middle child in a lively family of fourteen siblings. At just two months old, her family relocated to the Fresno, California area, where she spent her formative years and developed the warmth, resilience, and strong family values that would define her life. In her early adulthood, Paula married and welcomed her first two children, Barry Jr. and Stacey. In time, she made her way to Santa Clara, California, where she met the love of her life, Ray Rapuano. They were united in marriage on August 29, 1981, beginning a devoted partnership that would span 45 years. Together they welcomed their son, Jason, and built a life rooted in love and adventure while living throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. In the fall of 1996, Paula and her family embarked on a new chapter, moving cross-country to Cary, North Carolina, where she would remain for the rest of her life, eventually settling in Chapel Hill. Throughout her life, Paula worked as an executive administrator, a Realtor, and later owned and operated a furniture store. In each role, she brought care, reliability, and a thoughtful attention to detail. Above all, Paula was devoted to her family. She was the heart of her home—a constant source of strength, care, and unwavering support. Her generosity of spirit and selflessness touched all who knew her. She found great joy in caring for others and took immense pride in the lives and accomplishments of her children and grandchildren. Paula was also a gifted craftswoman with an extraordinary eye for detail and beauty. She expressed her creativity through jewelry making, knitting, and textile arts, creating pieces that will remain treasured keepsakes for those she loved. She is survived by her devoted husband of 45 years, Ray Rapuano; her children, Barry Jr. of Durham, North Carolina, Stacey of Wilmington, North Carolina, and Jason Rapuano (Nichole) of Pittsboro, North Carolina; and her eleven cherished grandchildren: Kevin, Kyle, Melissa, Jessica, Clayton, Grace, Jenna, Colton, Christopher, Cora, and Luca, each of whom brought her immeasurable pride and joy. She is also survived by her loving siblings: sisters Janet, Sandy, Carlene, and Janie, and brothers Mark and Merle, along with many extended family members and dear friends. Paula’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and quiet strength. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, creativity, and deep devotion to family that will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered. A private funeral service will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026.

Paula Ilene Rapuano

August 11, 1945 - March 31, 2026