
Paula Maio, 82, of Old Tappan, NJ, formerly of Park Ridge, NJ, passed away on Thursday, September 24, 2026. Paula was predeceased by her beloved sons, Joseph and Anthony. She was the loving wife of George and proud grandmother of Nicolette, Dominique, Julianna and Devon. Cherished sister of Deborah Nuzzo, her husband Ralph and daughter, Alix. Dear mother-in-law of Carmela and Sharri and her husband Adam Schefter and daughter Dylan. Also survived by her dear sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, many nieces and nephews and other loving relatives and friends.
Paula was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Throughout her life she enjoyed hosting parties, traveling, playing cards, backgammon, golfing, bowling, and playing tennis all in good company. She lit up a room with her smile, her love and her laugh, which will be forever cherished. She enjoyed her membership at Rockland Country Club in Sparkill, where she and George were members for over 45 years. She will be dearly missed.
Visiting hours are Thursday, October 1, 2026 from 3-8 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale, NJ.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Pius X RC Church, Old Tappan on Friday, October 2, 2026 at 11 AM. The mass can be viewed using the livestream link below:
In lieu of flowers, donations in Paula’s memory for Cardiology Research to Columbia University at Your Columbia: Remember Campaign would be greatly appreciated.

She will be missed and will be loved for ever
It’s with great great sadness that I need to be writing this. I never knew Paula. But I’ve been friends with her husband George since I was 16 years old probably a year younger,and there is nobody I have ever met and now I am 69 that could shine George’s shoes. George has been through more than the average person has been through in his lifetime and someone like George does not deserve any more or never did deserve anything to the magnitude in which he has been through my heart felt condolences go out to George, his family, his dear friends, and the people that knew and loved his wife, she had to be one special person because my friend George is one special person,and I love him and although I did not know Paula, I loved her. He’s spoken about her for many many years so it’s with sorrow and sadness that I am writing this and I want George to know he is my dear friend a friend that you don’t turn your back on. It’s very hard when something like this happens to explain yourself so I guess all I could really say is how much I love George and the woman he shared his life with. May God bless him. May Paula rest in peace for all eternity and may somehow as strong as George’s may he find some sort of peace God bless everyone. life is certainly not fair.
George I am so sorry for your loss
My prayers go out to Paula and you.
Paula was such a spunky girl with a big heart and a generous spirit. She was a fighter and defied the laws of nature single-handedly . Nothing defeated her as she and George coped with the unimaginable-with grace and style She is an inspiration and may she rest in a well deserved peace.
Dearest George,
Sending you our heartfelt condolences and big hugs during this difficult time. Paula’s warmth and beautiful smile will always be remembered. Please remember that we are right next door whenever you need anything.
Warmly,
Grace,Jenny,Peter(Your next door neighbors)
Dear George. I was shocked when I heard that Paula left us to go home. She’s at peace now, no more pain or suffering. She’s still here with us in spirit, and will feel her presence at times. You were such a trooper to give her the best care anyone could want. God bless you. I know Paula is in heaven and watching over all of us. She’s with her boys now, and all her loved ones that went home before her
Sincerest condolences to you and your family George. Paula was a beautiful person that lit up a room. May she rest in peace.
George,
I’m very saddened to hear about Paula,
I am sure she is in peace now with less pain. I know how much you cared for her, May she rest in peace.
I hope you will get back on your feet and be strong like I know you.
Family tears uncle Georgie, the deepest regret of losing my sweet Aunt Cook, you and everyone else in our family. Love you all such dear memories of us all together Memories will live on my heart.