Paula Heffren (Shaw) Dowdle

Paula Dowdle, 70, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Monday, September 30, 2024.

Paula is survived by her loving husband, Joe Dowdle; her three children, Stephanie Shaw, Robby Shaw (Melissa) and Libby Shaw; her three stepchildren, Christina Cleary (Dave), Amanda East (Michael) and Shawn Dowdle (Amanda). She is also survived by her seven grandchildren that she adored, Luca Shaw, Beau Shaw, Kelsey Delorenzo, Breanna Cleary, Hayden East, Daniel Dowdle, and Maeve Dowdle. Additional survivors include her beloved sister, Barbara Herndon (Jeff); and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Virginia Heffren and her stepson, Eric Dowdle.

Paula led a beautiful life of selfless giving and unconditional love. She was devoted to her family, friends and faith. She cherished her incredible friendships and many friends became her family over the years. She volunteered as a room mother while her children were young, participated in the PTA and volunteered regularly at Our Lady of Lourdes where she belonged for nearly 30 years. After she met Joe, she became a member of St. Athanasius where she was involved in the music ministry, planning multiple fundraisers and dances for the parish. Her involvement in the Catholic church was very important in her daily life. 

Paula had an adventurous spirit, she loved traveling to new places and trying new things. She loved cooking delicious meals, crafting, concerts, Hallmark movies and hosting their annual St. Patrick's Day party. She taught her children the importance of showing up for others, to follow through with your commitments and to always be kind. 

Visitation will be from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Sunday, October 6, 2024 at Newcomer, East Louisville Chapel (235 Juneau Drive, Louisville, KY 40243). A funeral mass will take place 10 am on Monday, October 7th at St. Athanasius Catholic Church (5915 Outer Loop, Louisville, Ky 40219) with inurnment following at Resthaven Memorial Park in Louisville, Kentucky. 

 In lieu of flowers, you can make donations to the following in her memory: 

Crohns and Colitis Foundation or the St. Athanasius Catholic Church Music Ministry, 5915 Outer Loop Louisville, KY 40219. 

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