Paula Riner Pafford

Paula Riner Pafford was born in Queens, New York, to John Lee Riner and Ann Susajlo Riner. She passed away peacefully at her home in Albany, Georgia, on September 21, 2026.

Paula was raised in Jacksonville, Florida, with her sister, Carol, and her younger brother, Michael. Growing up, Paula and Carol shared a room and many of the memories that shaped their childhood. She also shared a special bond with Michael, serving not only as his babysitter but also as his protector. Her devotion to him was an early reflection of the loving, loyal, and watchful spirit she carried throughout her life.

Paula graduated from River View Christian Academy, where she was a cheerleader. She also volunteered as a Candy Striper alongside her best friend, Phyllis. Paula had another special childhood friendship with Bobbie, whom she loved like a little sister. Years later, Bobbie stood beside Paula as a bridesmaid on her wedding day, a meaningful reflection of the special friendship they shared.

Paula later worked as a bank teller in Jacksonville, Florida, and in Albany, Georgia, before leaving the workforce to dedicate herself to being a homemaker and caring for her family.

Paula and her former husband, David Pafford, shared nearly 40 years of marriage and raised three children together: Jeremy, Davey, and Amanda. Being a wife and mother was an important part of Paula’s life, and her family remained at the heart of everything she did.

Some of Paula’s happiest moments were spent with the people she loved. She treasured family vacations, wonderful meals, and the simple pleasure of being together. She enjoyed fine dining with her family, shopping with her daughter and granddaughter, and settling in to watch what she fondly called “good TV.”

Her granddaughter, Makenzie, held an especially precious place in Paula’s heart and was a bright light in her life. Their time together brought Paula tremendous happiness and created treasured memories that will always be carried forward.

Cooking was one of the special ways Paula expressed her love. She took great pride in preparing her mother’s rigatoni recipe for family gatherings, continuing a tradition that connected generations. She was also well known for frying the best deer meat. It was a family favorite that no one could make quite like Paula.

Paula was a beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was beautiful, kind, deeply loving, and devoted to the people who mattered most to her. Her warmth, humor, and caring heart touched many lives, and her family and friends will cherish the memories she created with them.

Paula is survived by her son, Jeremy Pafford, and his wife, Amanda; her son, Davey Pafford; her daughter, Amanda Love, and her husband, Mike; her beloved granddaughter, Makenzie; her former husband, David Pafford; her brother, Michael Riner, and his wife, Bridget; and her sister, Carol Riner.

She is also lovingly remembered by Jacki Pafford Davis and Butch Pafford, who remained an important part of her extended family, as well as many other relatives and dear friends whose lives were made better by knowing her.

Paula was preceded in death by her parents, John Lee Riner and Ann Susajlo Riner. Paula loved her parents deeply, and we find comfort in knowing she was finally able to be with them again.

Paula’s family will deeply miss her presence, her cooking, her laughter, and all the little things that made time spent with her so special. Although she is no longer with us, the love she shared, the traditions she passed down, and the memories she created will live forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

The family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date.

Hall & Hall Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of the Pafford family.

Hall & Hall Funeral Home
324 S. Mock Rd.
Albany, GA 31705
229-883-3864