Ms. Paula Frances Drady, age 78, passed away on Friday, May 30, 2025, at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center. She was born June 23, 1946 in Washington D.C. to Paul Drady and Eldean Edith Coleman Drady Ludwick. At a young age the family moved to Hollywood, Florida where Paula graduated from McArthur High School in 1964. She then earned her Bachelor’s Degree in English Language and Literature from Stetson University in 1968 and a Masters Degree in Reading Education from Nova Southeastern University in 1981. Paula was a dedicated educator working as an English teacher and Department Chair in the Broward County School System from 1979 to 1999, and Patrick County Public Schools from 1999 to 2007. Paula was also an adjunct faculty member at Patrick and Henry Community College from 2008 to present.
In Retirement, Paula resided in Patrick County, VA and was active in her community. After joining the Rotary Club of Stuart in July 2008, Paula quickly became a dedicated and invaluable member of both the club and the wider community. Her commitment was unwavering, and she embraced every opportunity to serve with enthusiasm and grace. From 2012 to 2024, Paula served as Club secretary, holding the role for an impressive 12 years. She was a Sustaining Member, a Multiple Paul Harris Fellow,a Major Donor to The Rotary Foundation, and a proud graduate of the Rotary Leadership Institute. Her passion for service extended to numerous club committees, including Club Administration, the Patrick County Agricultural Fair, and SRC Productions. She was active with her church community at Big A Church of Christ and was a member of a music group “One Accord”. Paula enjoyed genealogy and volunteered at the Patrick County Historical Museum for many years. Paula also loved to read and always made time to enjoy a book.
Paula was preceded in death by her father, Paul Drady, her mother, Eldean Coleman Drady Ludwick; brother, Edward Drady; and special cousin, Lisa Woods Grona.
Paula leaves behind a sister-in-law, Kathleen McDanel of Rocky Mount, and close cousins, Valencia Jackson of Martinsville, Jerry Woods (Tina) of Stuart, Debbie Woods Williams (Ronnie) of Stuart, Bill Golden (Karen) of Boston, MA as well as many other cousins around the country, and her dogs Sam and Mollie.
A memorial service for Ms. Drady will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 11:30 A.M. at Moody Funeral Home Chapel. Family will receive friends from 10:00 A.M. until the time of the service. Paula was an ardent animal lover, supporting animal welfare organizations her entire life. In lieu of food or flowers, please make a contribution in Paula’s memory to an animal welfare organization, or the Blue Ridge Animal Welfare League, P.O. Box 184, Woolwine, VA 214185. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.moodyfuneralservices.com.
