Gloria Jeannette Paradis
Gloria Jeannette Paradis, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on January 16th at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, surrounded by her family. Living until the age of 85, Gloria led a full and happy life during which she touched the hearts of all who met her.
Gloria was born on May 31st, 1938 as the second child to Paul and Lillian (LaPointe) Berube, following her older brother, Paul Jr. In 1959, she married Lionel “Chippy” Paradis, to whom she was married for 58 years. They were an inseparable pair up until Chippy’s passing in 2017. During their time together, they enjoyed going out to breakfast, going on outings to The Christmas Tree Shop, and occasionally taking a trip to Ogunquit Beach to peruse the shops and eat their favorite seafood at Bob’s Clam Hut.
Gloria was a remarkable person who left an impact on all of the lives she touched. Her smile could light up a room, and she always knew how to help someone feel better in times of sadness. One hug from her was enough to comfort you on even the toughest of days. She was comedian level funny, always having stories to tell about shenanigans from her younger years. She could make you laugh with her facial expressions alone, and her happiness was displayed by the unmistakable smile on her face. Whether they were funny or serious, she loved to tell stories and share her memories and wisdom with those she encountered. On a day-to-day basis, she loved keeping up with competition shows such as The Price is Right and Let’s Make A Deal, and was remarkably good at guessing the correct answers. She had a special love for the musical films Mamma Mia and The Sound of Music, which she re-watched frequently.
Above any hobby or interest, Gloria’s passion in life was her Grandchildren. She maintained a daily presence in their lives from infancy, watching them after school and taking them to extracurricular activities. Even through their adulthood their connection remained, taking the form of weekly coffee dates and frequent lunches at T-Bones. For her Grandchildren, she wasn’t just a grandmother, but their best friend. She made such an indescribable mark on their lives and shaped them into the adults they are today. The loss of Gloria is deeply painful and heart wrenching, and her absence will be felt every single day.
Gloria is survived by three children: Suzanne Kesner of Texas, Lillian Viktorin of Texas, and Dennis Paradis of Nashua, NH. She is also survived by seven Grandchildren: Emily Ayer of New York; Kristin (Kesner) Thomas, James Kesner, and Michael Kesner of Texas; and Alex, Sam, and Anna Paradis of Nashua, NH. She is also survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Chippy, her parents, and her brother. Her family prays that she will be reunited with her loved ones, particularly Chippy, who Gloria has missed so much for the past seven years.
Gloria was a one of a kind person who was a true gift to everyone who had the honor of knowing her. Mere words can not describe how loved she was and continues to be, and how much love she gave in return. Even after her passing, she will remain a bright light in the hearts of her loved ones, where she will remain with them forever.
For anyone who wishes to memorialize Gloria, please consider making a donation to the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, NH in her name. You can donate at https://www.hhhc.org/how-to-help/memorial-gifts/.