Paula Rita Ziolkowski

Paula Rita Ziolkowski, 81, known to her friends and family as "Little Nana", of Raleigh, North Carolina, and formerly of Dunellen, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on the evening of Monday, September 8, 2025, at her home, surrounded by the love of her family.

 She retired as a Platform Manager from Starpointe Bank, where she was known for her kindness. After relocating to North Carolina, Paula continued to bring joy to others in her community through her roles as a hostess at O’Charley’s Restaurant and Over The Falls Restaurant. With every warm greeting and kind word, she made those around her feel loved. Even in retirement, Paula found ways to give back. She lovingly made blankets for newborn babies at WakeMed North Hospital — a quiet act of generosity that brought comfort to countless families.

Paula is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years, Robert A. "Bob" Ziolkowski; daughters, Stacy Sharma & husband Sean of Broadway, NC, and Tricia Solomon of Concord, NC; grandchildren, Steven Sharma of Zebulon, NC, Brandon & Justin Sharma of Raleigh, NC, and Ryan Solomon of Concord, NC; brothers, Ronald Cremo & wife Patricia of Cape Coral, FL, and Dennis Cremo of Topsham, VT; along with extended family and dear friends who will cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her mom, Mildred Cremo; siblings, Joey Hougak, Donna Whalen, and Anthony "Flip" Hougak.

A private family gathering will be held to honor Paula’s life at a later date.