'Perseverance, Faith, Grace': Town Bids Sad Adieu To Paulette Ofrias

SOUTHOLD, NY — The North Fork is mourning a woman who devoted her life to tirelessly giving back to her community.

Paulette Marie Ofrias of Southold died on April 26, at the age of 67, her obituary at DeFriest-Grattan Funeral Home said.

Ofrias was a bright light on the Southold canvas: She was the owner of the Southold Pharmacy, a member of the Rotary Club of Southold and president of Southold Union Free School District's Board of Education

The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 1, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the DeFriest-Grattan Funeral Home, 51400 Main Road in Southold. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, May 2, at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church, 52125 Main Road in Southold, with Fr. Peter Garry as celebrant.

Interment will follow at St. Patrick's R.C. Cemetery, located 4017 Main Bayview Road in Southold.

"She was a business leader, educational champion, and committed volunteer for many local civic organizations," her obituary said.

Born in Greenport and raised in Southold, Paulette loved the North Fork, especially Southold. She was a proud 'Left Over,'" her obituary said.

She is survived by her husband Gregory; sons Scott (Amy) of Nahant, MA and Patrick James “PJ” (Abigail) of Chichester, NH; grandchildren Scarlett, Dorothy, Tatum, and Kollyns Poppy; siblings Michelle Metz (William) and Suzanne “Choo” Fujita (David); and several nieces and nephews.

"Following in her father's footsteps, Paulette worked at and owned the Southold Pharmacy for over 40 years. It was her passion, and she loved her employees and customers, treating them like her extended family," the obituary read.

In 2014, she was honored by the North Fork Chamber of Commerce with the Business of the Year Award on behalf of the Scott Family Pharmacy. In 2020, the Southold Pharmacy was awarded the Suffolk Times Businesspeople of the year.

"A member of the Southold Board of Educations for over 22 years — serving as president for the past 13 — Paulette was instrumental in creating greater opportunities for Southold students to succeed, laying the groundwork for a shared service model for the rest of the state. As board president, Paulette was responsible for establishing Southold High School’s track and athletic complex, something she was immensely proud of. Recently, she was the recipient of the SCOPE’s School Board Service Award, which recognized individuals for having provided outstanding service to the district," the obituary said.

"Paulette was also active in the school's Athletic Association, the building and grounds committee, and was a member of the Southold School Educational Foundation. Additionally, Paulette was a proud member of the Southold Rotary, volunteered for St. Patrick's Church CCD religious education and CYO basketball programs, and was the esteemed recipient of the St. Pius Award from the Diocese of Rockville Center. Paulette was a trustee of the East End Health Plan and served on the East End Financial Group Advisory Board. In 2017, she was named a Woman of Distinction for her impact on the Southold community and legacy she established for future generations."

Her colleagues and friends remembered a woman who leaves a rich legacy: "It's heartbreaking. Having spent 14 years on the board with her, I can honestly say she was a tireless advocate for both the students and the taxpayers. While this may seem unworkable, she always advocated for the very best for the kids and the taxpayers paying for it. She loved the district and everyone in it. Her perseverance, faith and grace are examples for us all," said Scott Latham, vice-president of the Southold BOE.

"The North Fork Chamber of Commerce is deeply saddened by the passing of Paulette Ofrias, a beloved leader and longtime supporter of our community," the organization said.

"As the owner of Southold Pharmacy for over 40 years and a dedicated advocate for education through her 22 years on the Southold Board of Education, Paulette made a lasting impact. In 2014, the Chamber was proud to honor her with our Business of the Year Award. Her commitment to Southold and the North Fork will be remembered for years to come."

Speaking with Patch in 2023 about the 60th anniversary of the Southold Pharmacy, Ofrias reflected on her own personal joys in running such a well-loved business in town. Ofrias said she found deep fulfillment in knowing she and her staff were able to help their customers.

"Whether it's delivering to them, helping them after hours, or just listening to them — it makes it all worthwhile," she said.

When asked about some of her favorite memories, the stories, sad and joyful, that had been told across counters over the years, Ofrias smiled. "Too many to list," she said.

She also thanked her staff, who comprised the heart of the business. "They are the best — and I am so very grateful."

In lieu of flowers, donations to LUNGEVITY would be appreciated. Envelopes will be available at the funeral.