Paula Morton, 68, of Tinton Falls, passed away at home Aug. 18, 2024, after a two-and-a-half year courageously fought battle against lung cancer. Born in Red Bank, Paula grew up happily with three older brothers on the shores of the Navesink River in Fair Haven, where she attended local schools. She graduated from Rumson Fair Haven Regional High School in 1974 and recently attended her 50th high school reunion.
Paula attended Brookdale Community College, first training as a medical secretary, then proudly completing her degree to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. In that capacity, she worked for over 35 years at Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, earning many accolades for her exceptional work ethic and compassionate patient care. She then took her nursing skills to Chapin Hill Nursing Home in Red Bank, followed by private duty nursing until her retirement in 2021.
Paula was predeceased by her parents, Thomas and Gloria Morton, and her eldest brother Thomas Morton. She is survived by brothers Jeff Morton and partner Janet McConnell of Rumson, and Eric and Renee Morton of Palm City, Florida, several nieces and nephews, eight cousins and two family dogs that loved her dearly.
Paula loved the beach, shell and sea glass collecting and the Caribbean Islands. She especially loved the lifestyle and music of the islands and was the No. 1 fan of local reggae performer Smokey Starr.
As per her wishes, there will be no formal service. In lieu of cards and flowers, a donation to the Sandy Hook Foundation at sandyhooknj.org is suggested. A celebration of her life is planned for the spring of 2025.
Thompson Memorial Home of Red Bank has been entrusted with the arrangements.
The article originally appeared in the August 29 – September 4, 2024 print edition of The Two River Times.
