Paula P. Trentham, who grew up on Talmage Lane in East Hampton and worked for the East Hampton School District for many years, died on Sept. 29 at Community Hospice and Palliative Care's Earl B. Hadlow Center for Caring in Jacksonville, Fla. She was 86 and had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease nine years ago.
Mrs. Trentham was born at Southampton Hospital on June 18, 1934, to John B. Hasselberger and the former Anna Eister. After graduating from East Hampton High School, she worked at the photographer Dave Edwards's shop and then the school district until her retirement.
She and James E. Trentham, a native of Tennessee who was serving in the Air Force at Montauk, were married on Valentine's Day in 1954. Mr. Trentham, who later worked as a painting contractor, died in 2010.
Until the couple moved to Jacksonville Beach, Fla., in 2003, Mrs. Trentham was a member of Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in East Hampton. In Jacksonville Beach, she was a member of St. Paul's Catholic Church. She enjoyed golf, knitting, and the beach, said her daughter, Tracy McCauslin of Jacksonville Beach.
In addition to Ms. McCauslin, Mrs. Trentham is survived by her son-in-law, Martin McCauslin of Jacksonville Beach, who helped care for her during her illness. Four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren also survive. Another daughter, Debra Denton, died before her.
Mrs. Trentham was cremated, and a memorial service will be held at a date to be determined. Her family has suggested memorial contributions to the hospice of one's choice.
