Paula Jean Reid

KENNEBUNK – It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Paula Jean Reid at the Gosnell House on June 2, 2025 at the age of 73.

Paula was born on Nov. 8, 1951, in Rumford, to Edith (Estes) Ryder and Paul Ryder. After graduating from high school Paula worked for many years as the public relations director for the Portland Symphony Orchestra.

She was known to be exemplary in her duties and often shared fond memories of working the orchestra members and musical guests. Paula held several interim positions before joining the law firm of Murray, Plum and Murray as a legal receptionist. For the next 24 years it was Paula’s beautiful smile which welcomed staff and clients of the firm.

Paula retired from the firm in 2011. Paula and her husband David were the inn keepers and owners of the Fontenay Terrace in Kennebunkport from 2007-2019. She was well known as a gracious host to her guests.

Paula was always a family-oriented woman. She played a large role in the upbringing of her younger siblings. She is described as “the glue that held the family together”. Paula was known for her infectious smile and little laugh.

However, it was her impeccable fashion style that many will remember. She took pride in her appearance and always found joy in dressing for the occasion.

Paula’s interests were many. She had a fondness for animals and often had a rescue cat or two in the house. She had a passion for gardening and flower arranging. She could often be found in the one of the many antique shops in the Kennebunkport area scouring for treasures.

Paula and David were married in Hawaii on December 5, 1995. They enjoyed 29 years of married life. One of their favorite pastimes was their love of cruising. Over the years she and David enjoyed many cruises throughout the Caribbean.

Paula is survived by her husband, David Reid, her sister Rhonda Richardson and her husband Fred, seven nieces and nephews, her brothers-in-law Chuck Reid and Greg Reid, sister-in-law Lynn Reid, her very best friends Kathy Rossi and Trish Yale. Paula is predeceased by her parents Edith and Paul Ryder and her two brothers Scott and Gregory Ryder.

The family would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who provided care and support to Paula in her final days especially the truly amazing women of the Aging Excellence team.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday June 11, from 4 to 7 p.m., at Bibber Memorial Chapel, 67 Summer Street, Kennebunk. Funeral services will be on Thursday June 12 at 11 a.m., at the South Congregational Church, 2 North Street, Kennebunkport. Internment will follow at the Arundel Cemetery in Kennebunkport.

To share a memory or leave a message of condolence, please visit Paula’s Book of Memories Page at http://www.bibberfuneral.com.

Arrangements are in the care of Bibber Memorial Chapel, 67 Summer Street, Kennebunk, ME 04043.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Animal Welfare Society, PO Box 43, West Kennebunk, ME 04094.