Paula Rae King

Paula Rae King (née Glavan), age 69, of Shorewood, passed away peacefully after an extended illness on May 8, 2026, at Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care. She was born on September 14, 1956, in Joliet to Raymond and Eleanor Glavan (née Novak).

Paula was raised in Crest Hill and graduated with the Class of 1974 from Lockport High School. She later earned her Associate’s Degree, which became the foundation for a long and dedicated career as an Imaging Technician at Silver Cross Hospital and ENT Surgical Consultants in Joliet. Paula also spent time working as a Teacher’s Assistant at Minooka Grade School.

Paula remained deeply devoted to her Catholic faith throughout her life — attending St. Ambrose Grade School, receiving her sacraments at St. Anne’s Church, and worshipping at various area Catholic churches.

Paula treasured time spent with family and friends, especially summers at Paw Paw Lake. She was happiest near the water. She was a longtime member of Wilmington Recreation Club — enjoying sunning, boating, and water skiing.

Paula enjoyed Sunday picnics at St. Joe’s Park, evenings at the Cro Club, and playing Euchre, often at the Rivals Club. Paula was a Fox News junkie and a proud supporter of President Donald Trump.

She was also a devoted fan of the Chicago Bears, watching them with a perfect Bloody Mary. She even met her husband Pat at a game in Tampa. Northwestern football was another of her favorites.

Above all, Paula cherished her family. She was especially devoted to caring for her granddaughter, Raegan, and found great joy in the many friendships and close-knit relationships she and Patrick built with neighbors and loved ones over the years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Eleanor Glavan; and her parents-in-law, John and Norene King.

Paula is survived by her loving husband of 34 years, Patrick King; her children, Jordan King and Blake King; her granddaughter, Raegan; and her siblings, Nancy (Steve) Leins, Thomas (Lori) Glavan, Melanie (Chuck) Keltz, and Keith (Nancy) Glavan. She is also survived by many extended family members and dear friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many friends and neighbors whose compassion, support, and kindness meant so much during Paula’s illness.In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer that any donations offered in Paula’s honor be directed to Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness care at https://lightways.org/make-a-donation/ .

A Celebration of Life Memorial Gathering will be held on Wednesday May 13, 2026 from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Tezak’s Home to Celebrate Life, 1211 Plainfield Rd. Joliet, IL 60435. All guests are invited to return to Tezak’s the morning of Thursday May 14, 2026 at 9:00 am for continued visitation before we process to Saint Carlo Acutis Catholic Church, 1705 Burry Circle Dr. Crest Hill, IL 60403 for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10:00 am. Immediately following Mass, we will process to Saint Joseph Cemetery, 1500 N. Raynor Ave Joliet, IL for a graveside Inurnment Committal Service.