Paula Marie Hempel Dooley, born April 3, 1965, in Smithtown, Long Island, New York, passed peacefully into the Lord's arms on December 23, 2025, in Bismarck , North Dakota, with her eldest daughter by her side.

Paula spent most of her life in Salem, New York, a place she always called home. Three years ago, she made the journey to Newburg, North Dakota, where she lived out her final years.

Paula loved the warmth of sunshine, and that is where her family will always feel her. She devoted her children's childhood to making memories—camping, fishing, driving around to look at Christmas lights, sledding, big fires and teaching the art of "doing it yourself." In her younger years, Paula participated in track and field hockey while attending Salem Washington Academy with her best friend Michelle Scarselletta who's friendship followed on through their adult life, Paula had array of jobs but always devoted herself to being a mother first.

Paula had a smile that could warm any heart. She loved making people feel loved and wanted and was always the life of the party. Though she faced many trials throughout her life, she pushed through with strength and adaptability. "Laughing is the best medicine," she would say—and that is what her family carries with them.

Paula was predeceased by her grandparents and was met at Heaven's gate by her firstborn grandson, Robert.

She leaves behind her loving and devoted parents, Arthur Hempel and Dorothy Jones Hempel of Salem, New York; her sister, Penny Hempel (Harry Chester) of Salem, New York; and her husband, Scott Dooley, with whom she shared raising her children and creating a blessed life and continuous friendship .

Paula also leaves behind her three children: Emily Myers Martin (Scott Martin) of Newburg, North Dakota; Hunter Dooley of Salem, New York; and Brittany Dooley (Hunter Periard) of Salem, New York. She shared a special bond with her niece and nephew, Amber and Tyler Chester, and her dear neighbors who welcomed her in Newburg.

Most of all, Paula's pride and joy were her grandchildren: Aubree and Aiden Martin of Newburg, North Dakota, and Adysan and Hunter "Buggy" Periard Jr. of Salem, New York.

Paula would not want mourning—she's playing slot machines with her beloved sister-in-law, who preceded her in death exactly two years before. Paula lived life on her own terms, in her own time, often saying, "If you want it done, do it yourself."

We love you, Mom.

In memory of Paula, the family kindly asks that donations be made to your local food drive.