Paula Gilson Hunter

Paula Ann Gilson Hunter, a devoted mother, grandmother, and woman of deep faith, passed away on Sunday, June 15, surrounded by her loving family. She was 89 years old.

Born on August 19, 1935, in Washington, D.C., Paula graduated from Blair High School in 1953. Following her passion for helping others, she completed her nursing training at the Capital Nursing School and went on to serve as a nurse at the National Institutes of Health and Fort Monroe, Virginia. 

In 1959, Paula married the love of her life, George Terrett Hunter, Jr. Together, they raised six children, and she embraced her role as a full-time mother with grace, strength, and unwavering dedication. Paula had a deep respect for the sanctity of life and was a consistent and faithful supporter of the pro-life movement throughout her life, faithfully attending the March for Life every year and volunteering at Birthright. Her Catholic faith was central to who she was, and she was an active member of St. Bernadette’s in Silver Spring, later worshipping at St. John’s and most recently at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church in Frederick, Maryland. She brought joy to those around her with her calm spirit and sense of humor, always ready for a good laugh. Many people commented that when she smiled, her eyes smiled. In her younger years, Paula enjoyed camping, biking, and spending time with family—treasuring every gathering, large or small, often providing her signature butter horn rolls. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her great happiness, and she took special delight in watching her family grow. Paula was also known for her frugality — never wanting to waste anything. She once donated an old coffee maker to Goodwill with a note inside the pot that said, “coffeemaker works, it’s just slow…you have time to mow the grass or make a pie while the coffee brews.” 

Paula was preceded in death by her beloved husband, George Terrett Hunter, Jr., and her daughter, Amy Cecilia Norman (Vince Norman). She is survived by her children: Mary Katherine Freeman (David), George Hunter (Carrie Cross Hunter), Jenny Brenzel (Darryl), Patrick Hunter, and Joseph Hunter. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Ray Norman, Katie Freeman Gandharba (Gresom), Connor Freeman, and Candice Hines; and great-grandchildren: Lyna Grace and Raya Grace Gandharba, Ellie Hines, and Jacob Hines. Paula is also remembered with love by many nieces, nephews, and extended family. 

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church in Frederick, Maryland on Monday, June 30th at noon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paula’s memory to St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church or EWTN Television Station.

Paula’s legacy of faith, compassion, and love will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her.