Pauline (Dellomo) Hayes, of Shrewsbury, formerly of 38 Glezen St Worcester a devoted mother, grandmother and friend, passed away home to the angels, Wednesday, October 19th 2016 four days before celebrating her 87th birthday on Sunday the 23rd, surrounded by the family she adored after a brief period of declining health.

Pauline was born in Worcester, one of five children of Matteo and Maria (Masiello) Dellomo. She grew up in Worcester, raised her five children as a stay at home mom before entering the workforce with the King Instrument Corporation in Westborough for over 13 years and then for a time for the Visiting Nurse Association, before retiring in 1982. She was a member of the former St Margaret Mary church.

Pauline was the backbone of her family. She remained devoted to her nearest and dearest, especially her children and beautiful grandchildren. She enjoyed the simple pleasures of life; spending time with family and friends, family dinners, attending her children and especially her grandchildren’s activities, never missing the chance to cheer them on, even being present at some of their births. She believed in her faith, raising her family in church and reciting the rosary daily. Her unwavering faith kept her grounded and helped her through life’s challenges. She was a wonderful cook and had an open door policy to her home where all were welcome and no one was able to leave hungry or without taking something home. She loved to bowl and in her youth was a member of several bowling leagues. She also liked her trips to Foxwoods and going to the beach.

She is survived by the family she loved, her daughters Delina “Dolly” Knight and her husband David of Richmondville, New York, Paula J. Thornton and her husband Thomas, Susan Richmond and her husband Donald all of Worcester, Andrea Paradis and her husband Robert of Charlton; her daughter in law, Kim Merchant in Connecticut; 14 grandchildren one of which she was also Godmother to Ryan Richmond; 12 great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, including another godson, James Smith; extended family members and friends. Her son, Arthur “Buster” Merchant passed away in 2005, three brothers, John, George “Chucko” and Angelo Dellomo and a sister Millie Smith also predeceased her.

Pauline’s funeral will be held Saturday, October 22nd from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. with a procession to St Stephen’s church, 357 Grafton St. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours Friday, October 21nd from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers remembrances in her name can be made to a charity of one’s choice .