Paula Tilley Floyd

Paula Tilley Floyd, 54, of Durham, North Carolina, passed away on March 6, 2026. Born and raised in Durham, she remained a lifelong and beloved member of the community that shaped her. Though she worked as a self-employed housekeeper, those closest to her knew that her true calling was caring for others. Paula had a rare gift for making people feel welcome, valued, and loved. To her, family extended far beyond bloodlines and included anyone fortunate enough to enter her life.

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); her sister-in-love, Dawn Tilley; and her 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 embraced life with unmistakable joy and energy. She cheered loudly from the sidelines at sporting events, laughed heartily with her Bible study friends, and gathered often with both blood and chosen family. She danced whenever there was music, played every board game with enthusiasm, and brought warmth and laughter to every gathering. Even in difficult times, she placed others first and carried a spirit that lifted those around her. Her vibrant personality, genuine kindness, and ability to transform ordinary moments into something memorable left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

She will be remembered as the brightest light in any room, a woman whose love and laughter continue to live on through the family she cherished and the many lives she touched.