Paula Gail Gregory Carlan

Paula Gail Gregory Carlan, 72, of Tallahassee, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, with her husband and best friend of 53 years, Arthur Carlan Jr., by her side. Together, they shared a love built on faith, devotion, and the kind of partnership that stands as an example to all who knew them. Born in Pinehurst, North Carolina, to William and Juanita Gregory, Paula carried her Southern grace and gentle strength wherever she went. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, William (Bill) Gregory, and is survived by her sister-in-law, Mittie Gregory, and nephew, Brian, as well as her extended Carlan family — William and Susan Carlan, and Kitty and Roy Fricks, and their children — all of whom held a special place in her heart. Paula is also survived by her beloved husband, Arthur; her son, Arthur Carlan III, and his wife, Becky, and their children, Madeline, Reagan, Gregory, and Isaac; and her daughter, Sidney (Carlan) Smith, and her husband, Dan, and their children, Asa, Delaney, and Oscar. As a Licensed Practical Nurse, Paula spent her life caring for others — not just as a profession, but as a calling. Her compassion extended far beyond hospital walls and into every life she touched. Whether you were family, friend, neighbor, or stranger, she loved you as her own. Paula lived her life in unwavering devotion to Jesus Christ, embodying His love in all she did. Her heart reflected the words of 1 Corinthians 13:4–8a: Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. These weren’t just words to Paula — they were the way she lived, loved, and gave of herself daily. She bore the fruits of the Spirit in every season of her life. To be loved by Paula was to feel known and valued. Her warmth could fill a room, and her thoughtfulness left lasting impressions in the hearts of so many. Her generosity and quiet strength were a comfort to all who knew her. While Paula’s presence will be deeply missed, the light she shared lives on — in every act of kindness, every quiet prayer, and every life she touched with her boundless love. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Paula’s life at 2:30PM on Friday, November 14th, at Celebration Baptist Church, 3300 Shamrock Street East, Tallahassee, FL 32309. Together, we’ll gather in love and gratitude or the beautiful life she lived and the joy she brought to so many. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Mayo Clinic Transplant Research Fund in memory of Paula Gregory Carlan — a heartfelt tribute to the precious gift of life she received through her liver transplant in 2020, and to the five additional years of grace, love, and faith that followed. Your gift will honor her legacy of compassion and care by advancing the research that gives hope and healing to others facing similar journeys. Dayne Parker of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the Carlan family with their arrangements.

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Paula Gail Gregory Carlan

November 10, 1952 - October 15, 2025