Paula Herbert
November 17, 1945 – December 24, 2021

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." – Jeremiah 29:11

Paula Fanning Herbert, 76, of Vero Beach, passed away on Friday, December 24, 2021, after a year-long battle with cancer.

Paula was born on November 17, 1945, in Boston MA to Edmund and Catherine Fanning. She was raised in Waban MA and attended Newton Country Day School of the Sacred Heart. She obtained her BA degree in Art History from Newton College of the Sacred Heart in Newton Centre MA in 1967. She had a long and distinguished career with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey lasting 33 years. Shortly after starting in the management training program in 1969, she became art curator for the agency and then worked her way up to senior administrator before retiring in 2002.

She has been a resident of Vero Beach, FL since 2008, coming from New York with her husband Ernest Herbert whom she married in 1973. Paula was a devoted wife, mother, sister, and gentle spirit who enjoyed needlepoint, reading, and traveling. She was a member of the American Association of University Women and volunteered with Habitat for Humanity. She was also an active member of the Highland Mills United Methodist Church. She participated in various ministries including South Hudson Tres Dias, where she served as Rector of Women's Retreat #47, and Kairos Prison Ministries.

She is preceded in death by her parents. Survivors include her loving husband, Ernest Herbert, son Ernest Lee Herbert IV, daughter Mara Herbert, stepchildren Tanya Taylor and Ernest Herbert III, step-grandson Eric Herbert, and brother Edmund (Fran) Fanning. She is also survived by nieces, nephews, in-laws, and a host of life-long friends. She was very proud of her family and friends, and leaves behind nothing but beautiful memories.

Private memorial will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to VNA & Hospice Foundation (1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach FL 32960). Arrangements are made by Cox-Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home and Crematory, Vero Beach FL.