Paula J. McCarthy

Paula J. McCarthy, 54, died Sept. 24, 2009, at her home in Brainerd. A memorial Mass will be held Oct. 17, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Cecelia's Catholic Church in Algona, Iowa. Inurnment to follow at Calvary Cemetery. Friends are invited to gather beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Paula Jean McCarthy was born on June 24, 1955, in Algona, Iowa, the 14th child of Donald C. and Marion (Haan) McCarthy. She graduated from Bishop Garrigan High School in Algona in 1973. She attended North Iowa Community College, Iowa State University, College of St. Catherine, Minneapolis Community College and completed her bachelor's degree in gerontology at Metro State University in St. Paul in 1991. Because of her love for the elderly and less fortunate, she worked as a nursing assistant at various nursing homes when she was able. She valiantly battled mental illness her entire adult life.

In lieu of flowers, send memorials to St. Cecelia's Parish, 715 E. North St., Algona, IA 50511.

Arrangements entrusted to the Brenny Funeral Chapel in Baxter.