Paula Ann Casterella, 76, of Westbrook, Maine, passed away on July 27, 2026, after a courageous journey with Alzheimer's disease. Known to many who loved her as "Miss Paula" or "Mama Swag," Paula possessed a rare and radiant spirit that left an indelible mark on every life she touched.

Born on July 15, 1950, in Wakefield, Massachusetts, to the late Paul and Anna Lenfest, Paula grew up with a warmth and generosity of heart that would come to define her entire life. She was caring, loving, and simply extraordinary in her ability to make anyone smile. Those who knew her understood that her greatest gift was the sheer size of her heart and her unwavering devotion to the people around her.

Paula and her beloved husband, the late William Casterella, shared 54 years of marriage, building a life together filled with love, laughter, and deep companionship. She was an immensely proud mother, cherishing every moment spent watching her son Bryan play sports as he grew up. In later years, she found tremendous joy in his music, writing and the way he transformed his life. She equally treasured attending her husband's softball games, where her enthusiastic presence was always felt on the sidelines.

Professionally, Paula dedicated herself to the well-being and happiness of others. She taught nursery school, served as an activity director at an assisted living facility, and ultimately channeled her passion into her own storytelling business, "Miss Paula's Folktales" bringing the magic of stories to children and families. An avid reader and lover of music across many genres, Paula also adored her beloved dogs, Blossom and Snoopy, who were faithful companions throughout the years. Above all, she loved her friends deeply and found her greatest purpose in simply making people smile.

Paula is survived by her son, Bryan Casterella; her daughter-in-law Fern Dowling; her brother in-law, James Casterella; her sister, Sharon McCarthy; her nephew, James Casterella Jr. her great nephews Sam and Jack and her niece Brianne, along with many cherished friends. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by countless worries she refused to carry, choosing instead to live by her favorite words of wisdom.

Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of Paula's life on Friday, August 7, at 11:00 a.m. at A.T. Hutchins in Portland.

Paula lived by a simple philosophy that carried her through every season of life: "It is what it is, and it could always be worse." May her spirit of resilience, joy, and boundless love continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.