Dorothy Jones Obituary

Dorothy Paula Jones, affectionately known to many as Paula, was born on March 8,
1938, in Chicago. She passed away peacefully on February 28, 2025, in Naples,
Florida, at the age of 86. Paula's extraordinary life was marked by significant
achievements and deep connections with those she loved and served. She was an
ardent Cubs fan and spent quality time with her Dad attending games at Wrigley Field
during the summers of her youth.
Paula's academic pursuit took her from Northern Illinois University, where she earned
her bachelor's degree, to Indiana University, where she completed her master's degree.
Her educational journey paved the way for a fulfilling career in physical education,
teaching at Minisink Valley Central School in Slate Hill, New York. It was here that
Paula's passion for sports and education intertwined, as she devoted herself to
developing the girls' sports program and founded the Girls' Athletic Club. Her coaching
prowess soon became apparent, particularly in high school basketball, where her teams
consistently excelled within the Orange County league. Paula's team made history in
1969 by winning the inaugural Orange County League championship game for women,
setting a standard of excellence that others aspired to reach.
In 1968, Paula married Ed Urbin, and the following year, they welcomed their beloved
daughter, Cindy. After taking a brief hiatus from coaching and experiencing a change in
her personal life, Paula found enduring love with her life partner, Pat Ward. Together,
they shared a remarkable 48 years, fostering a home filled with mutual love and
respect.
Returning to her first love of coaching, Paula took on a new challenge at Orange County
Community College, leading the women's basketball team to the semifinals of the
national championship. This triumph was a testament to her coaching acumen and
leadership. Paula's return to high school sports saw her revitalizing the Girls' Volleyball
team, crafting it into a formidable force within NY State. As a result, Paula was
nominated and inducted into the New York State Public HS Association's Hall of Fame
for her dedication to Girls' sports.
When she retired, Paula returned to her old love - Golf. She re-fueled her passion for
the game and once again, excelled at it, winning club championships and achieving 8
holes-in-one. She was a member of the Port Jervis Country Club in Port Jervis NY and
served on the Board of Directors.
Beyond her coaching accolades, Paula was appreciated for her unique ability to
connect with her students, regardless of their skill levels. She crafted teams built on
respect and camaraderie, teaching her players not just how to win, but also how to
support one another. Professionally, her commitment to advancing women's sports
leaves a lasting legacy, impacting countless young athletes.
Paula is survived by her daughter, Cindy Darcy, her grandchildren Elizabeth and Kate
Darcy, and her life-time partner, Pat Ward, her sisters Diane Singleton, and Susan
Wenegar (Ben), nieces Sara Johnson, Ann Wellan (George), nephew Mark Singleton
(Laura) and several great nieces and nephews. She was pre-deceased by her father
Paul Jones and her mother Venita Jones. Her family, friends, and all those who had the
privilege of playing for her will dearly miss her presence.
A commemorative service will be held to honor Paula's life on Thursday, March 6th, at
the Fuller-East Funeral Home, 4735 Tamiami Trail East in Naples. Visiting hours will be
from 10 to 11 AM, with services to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations will go to: Arden
Court Lely Palm Programming Department. Make checks payable to: Patricia Ward.
While Paula has departed from this world, the zeal with which she embraced her life,
the joy she found in coaching, and the happiness she shared with her family and
friends, endures in the memories of all who knew her. Her life was full, vibrant, and a
testament to the power of love and dedication.
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