Paula H. Lynch
Berlin

Paula H. Lynch, wife, mother and notable local resident, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 89 on Friday, April 25, 2025, in Berlin.

Born in Baltimore before making her way to the Eastern Shore, she was the daughter of the late Paul Reinhart Hassencamp and Catherine (Wheatley) Hassencamp.

Paula was a graduate of Roland Park Country School’s Class of 1953, where she was a member of the school’s field hockey team.  She then attended Goucher College, earning a bachelor’s degree in education before teaching history at Towson High School. Paula met her husband of 69 years, Franklin, at the Phillips Beach Plaza on the boardwalk in Ocean City when the two worked summer desk clerk jobs. They married on December 27, 1955, and after some time moved to Snow Hill in Worcester County.

In 1970, Paula took on the role of Business Manager of Worcester Preparatory School (then Worcester Country School).  She was integral to the early success of the school, supporting its founding through her efforts behind the scenes including answering phones, completing paperwork, and overseeing construction permits and approvals. She served Worcester Prep diligently for over 50 years, earning the school’s Worcester Honors Service Award before her retirement in June 2021.

Paula’s service didn’t end with her work at Worcester Prep.  In 1988, after relocating from Snow Hill to Berlin, Paula won an at-large seat on Berlin’s Town Council.  Often praised for her sound judgement and fair business sense, she served her community through her council seat for 26 years before her retirement in 2014.

Paula’s presence was defined by her quick wit, no-nonsense style, and steadfast commitment to her work and community.  This commitment was matched only by her dedication to her family. She is survived by her husband, Franklin Lynch, and two daughters, Sarah Lynch, and Jennifer Lynch.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 3:00PM, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Berlin. A visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Interment will immediately follow at St. Paul’s Episcopal Churchyard. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via www.burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Worcester Preparatory School, 508 South Main Street, Berlin, Md. 21811.