Paula Justine Mangarella, 63 of North Port, Florida, died peacefully on Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at her home, surrounded by her children and beloved beagles. Born in Jersey City, N.J. on March 5, 1960, daughter of Peter Motta and the late Rosemarie Motta, Paula had formerly lived in Hunterdon County, N.J. for many years.

She graduated Hunterdon Central Regional High School, class of 1978 and went on to become a registered nurse. She began her career working in the hospital setting and eventually found a love of working in medical facilities within the jails and prisons. She spent her life making a career working in correctional facilities and eventually became a Regional Vice President within her company. She had great pride in her work and enjoyed traveling and working with some amazing people who grew into lifelong friends. Paula was a kind and gentle soul whose smile lit up any room she entered. She had a love of all animals, and loved being home with her 4 beagles. She was extremely proud of her children and grandchildren and loved spending time with them whenever possible.

She was preceded in death by her son, Christopher Brett Mason in 2020, her mother, Rosemarie Motta in 2017, and her nephew Mark James Motta in 2016.

Surviving are her children and their spouses, Lazarus and Andrea Mason of Jacksonville, NC, Shawn and Dolan Barcalow of Forked River, NJ, Joseph Mason of North Port, FL, Tony and Ann Garzone of Coconut Creek, FL; eleven grandchildren, Anthony, Russell, Emily M., Travis, Dominic, Archer, Gianna, Leah, Christopher, Emily B., and Vincenzo; her father, Peter Motta of Flemington, NJ; siblings and their spouses, Peter and Marielena Motta of Flemington, NJ, Scott and Pamela Cameron of Flemington, NJ; niece and nephews, Peter Motta, Donald Savacool, Jordan Cameron and Angela Cameron.

A memorial service will take place on Sunday, March 10, 2024 from 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. at Countryside Funeral Home, 724 Route 202 North, Three Bridges, N.J. 08887, with a prayer service at 3p.m. officiated by Rev. Salvatore Bonfiglio.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those wishing to do so make a donation towards the long term care of Paula's youngest son, Joey (William Joseph Mason) do that through this GoFundMe link https://gofund.me/ae8a6745

To send condolences to the family or light a virtual candle, please visit www.CountrysideFuneralHome.com .