Alma M. Pauling

Alma Marie Pauling, 93, of Selinsgrove, entered into eternal rest on July 6, 2025, at Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg surrounded by her loving family.

Born on February 9, 1932, in Gettysburg, Alma was the beloved daughter of the late Loyd R. and Marie A. (Little) Reaver. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend whose warmth and grace touched the lives of many.

Alma earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Mansfield University and began her teaching career in 1954 in the Elizabethville School District. In 1955, she married William “Jack” Pauling. Together they shared nearly fifty years of marriage marked by deep love and steadfast partnership.

In the mid-1950s, Alma and Jack settled in Towanda, where she worked as a home economist for the Penn State Extension in Bradford County. A dedicated member of the Order of the Eastern Star, she also served as Worthy Matron of her local chapter. She and Jack enjoyed road rallying in their TR3 convertible as well.

Alma paused her professional work for several years to focus on raising her family, a role she embraced with love and devotion. She returned to teaching in the late 1970s and spent the remainder of her career at the Selinsgrove Area School District, where she taught home economics and history. Her thoughtful instruction and gentle guidance left lasting impressions on countless students.

Faith was the cornerstone of Alma’s life. A life-long Lutheran, she was a devoted member of Sharon Lutheran Church in Selinsgrove since 1978. She served faithfully in many roles over the years, including altar guild and church council, always giving generously of her time and spirit.

Alma found joy in life’s simple pleasures. A sharp and enthusiastic bridge player, she enjoyed many hours around kitchen tables and club tournaments with friends. She loved games, brain teasers, and never missed solving her daily cryptoquip. Rarely did a Bible question on Jeopardy! elude her.

Alma was also a gracious hostess. She enjoyed few things more than a warm house full of friends and family enjoying her hospitality, her lovingly prepared food, and her good humor.  She was an exceptional cook as anyone who ever sampled one of her pies or her sticky buns would attest.

Alma is survived by her son, Brian D. Pauling (Dawn) of Middleburg; daughter, Diane M. Pauling of Selinsgrove; and grandchildren Sean (Sarah), Kyle, and Kaitlin. She was preceded in death by her husband, William J. Pauling Jr., her parents, and her sister, Evelyn K. Reaver.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A viewing will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Friday, July 11, 2025, at V.L. Seebold Funeral Home, 601 N. High Street, Selinsgrove.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Sharon Lutheran Church, 120 S. Market Street, Selinsgrove, with Rev. Robert P. Doll officiating. Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Gettysburg.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Sharon Lutheran Church, Selinsgrove.

Arrangements by V.L. Seebold Funeral Home, 601 North High Street, Selinsgrove.

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