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Obituary
Paulette Dillingham, born on March 2, 1948, in Wyandotte, Michigan, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2024, in Newport, at the age of 76. She leaves behind a legacy of love, warmth, and dedication to her family and community.
A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Paulette's life was filled with joy and adventure. She met the love of her life, Bill Dillingham, at the Down River News Herald where they both worked. Together, they shared 28 wonderful years.
Paulette had an adventurous spirit and a passion for travel, especially to the Western United States. She cherished trips to Yellowstone, Hawaii, and Alaska, finding beauty in the diverse landscapes. Her heart, however, belonged to the ocean, and she adored spending summers in Maine with her children and Bill. A favorite spot was the Lobster Shack, where cherished memories were made year after year.
An accomplished gardener, Paulette was a master gardener who found joy in nurturing her plants, particularly hydrangeas. Her love for flowers was evident as she admired and compared blooms wherever she went.
Her passion for history led her to become a docent at Indian Village in Detroit, where she shared her knowledge and love for the past with others. Known for her intelligence and curiosity, Paulette was always eager to learn and do more.
Paulette's caring and selfless nature extended beyond her family. A dedicated member of the Trenton Rotary, she spearheaded numerous projects and fundraisers for charity. Her charitable spirit shone brightly during the holiday season when she rang the bell for the Salvation Army and crafted beautiful baskets for auction alongside her husband, Bill.
Above all, Paulette's greatest joy was her family. She loved her grandchildren immensely, always protective and eager to spoil them. Her devotion to them was boundless, and she often expressed that love, saying she loved them "to the moon and back."
Paulette's friendships were as enduring as her love for her family. She maintained close bonds with her friends from grade school throughout her life, cherishing each relationship deeply.
Preceded in death by her parents, Sigmund and Helen Karabin, Paulette is survived by her beloved husband, Bill Dillingham, and her children: Lisa (John) Metcalf, Jennifer (Bill) Konior, Adrienne (Ryan) Isaacs, Lora (Kevin Gadigian) Dillingham, and Bill (Amanda) Dillingham. She also leaves behind her adored grandchildren: Jacob, Tyler, Ryan, Kyle, Jane, Bradley, Jackson, Greyson, James, Cal, Abraham, and Leighton; and her siblings, Michael (Nancy) Karabin, Jerry Karabin, and Jacqueline (Ron) Edgecomb.
Paulette Dillingham will be remembered for her loving, caring, and smart nature. Her selflessness and generous heart touched many lives, and her memory will forever be cherished by all who knew her. Her cremation will take place at “The Witness Crematory” located inside of Michigan Memorial Funeral Home.
