Wake, Funeral Planned for Paula Desel

Hampton Bays resident Paula Desel, 82, who died on Friday, April 20, touched scores of young lives through her dedication to the community.

Affectionately known as “Miss Paula,” Desel was a beloved part of the fabric of Boy Scout Troop 483 in Hampton Bays, serving as a longtime committee member, merit badge counselor and religious emblem counselor. She also ran the altar service program at St. Rosalie’s R.C. Church for many years.

“Paula was one of the most caring and giving people I know,” said former Boy Scout Troop 483 committee member Peggy Squires. “She was always giving of herself and worked tirelessly for the kids, especially the Scouts. There are many Eagle Scouts who have Paula to thank for her help and guidance.”

Squires said her sister Hilda Blevins remembers Ms. Desel at Hampton Bays High School, waving posters and wishing the band students good luck as they headed off on trips.

“She was such a special lady,” said former Boy Scout Troop 483 committee chair George McKillop. “She had such a huge, positive influence on so many girls and boys,” he said.

Reflecting on the woman who made such a difference in his life, he added, “You touched so many hearts with your unselfish acts of kindness. You made such a difference in so many lives. You will be missed. Rest in peace, my dear friend.”

Emma Squires, a Hampton Bays High School student, said Desel took a personal interest in the young people she mentored.

“Paula made an effort to get to know you,” she said. “She would remember you and follow up on how you are doing and what you are doing when she would meet you the next time."

Michael Squires said many Scouts who have received the Ad Altare Dei religious emblem, have Desel to thank for her counsel.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at R.J. O’Shea Funeral Home in Hampton Bays. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday at St. Rosalie’s R.C. Church. Interment will be at Sacred Hearts Cemetery in Southampton.

In lieu of flowers, family requests donations to Sisters of Divine Compassion, 52 North Broadway, White Plains, NY 10603, or Daughters of Wisdom 385 Ocean Ave., Islip, NY 11761.