Arloa DeFord Paul
Arloa DeFord Paul of Marietta, Georgia, age 75, passed away unexpectedly on October 23, 2021.
She was born in Cleveland, Ohio on December 10, 1945 and was a graduate of Brooklyn High School and Cuyahoga Community College, both in Cleveland, Ohio. Arloa worked for the Cleveland Institute of Music and Balmar Corporation, but her greatest passion was her family. She was her happiest being with her husband Ernie while cheering on her daughters and grandchildren in all their activities. She was caring, thoughtful, and the best listener. She selflessly always put everyone else’s needs ahead of her own.
Arloa is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Beatrice DeFord. She is survived by her adoring husband of 53 years, Ernest Paul; her daughters Heather Braniff (Thomas) and Kristin Hunt (Samuel); her sister Roberta Perkins (David); her grandchildren Connor Braniff, Morgan Braniff, Davin Hunt, and Holden Hunt; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.
A memorial service will be held at 11am on Wednesday, November 3, with a receiving line and light refreshments immediately following at the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection 4814 Paper Mill Road, Marietta, Georgia.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Habitat for Humanity, a cause very meaningful to Arloa.
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I am so blessed and honored that God chose me to be your daughter. I couldn’t have asked for a better mom. Even a middle-aged woman needs “her mommy” and selfishly, it pains me that I no longer can call to tell you about my day or get that hug that I love so much. But, I’m comforted knowing you are with Grandma, Poose and friends. I love you so much! ❤️
Arloa, you were the best wife a man could ever ask for and the love of my life for 53 wonderful years. You gave me two fantastic daughters, Heather and Kristin, both of whom gave both of us great joy. You adored our grandchildren and were involved with them until you were struck down with severe pain that none of the many doctors could eliminate.
I miss you every minute of every day, but I know now there is another angel in Heaven where no pain exists.
Kristen and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Arloa was such a wonderful person. Kristen and I were tennis partners for many seasons and she and Ernie were always there cheering us on. No matter if we won or loss she was always there waiting on us with words of encouragement. And with that big heartwarming smile on her face. I always looked forward to seeing them court side. Give your dad a hug from Paul and I. I know he is heartbroken. I wish peace and healing for your family. 😘
A sweet, sweet woman who put her family first and was a constant in their lives. We’re so, so sorry Ernie, Heather and Kristin. I am praying for consistent peace in knowing she’s in paradise and loving every minute, until you’re all reunited. Perhaps she’s walking with my mom today. Love to you all, and prayers!