Jodi Dee Palaia

Jodi Dee Palaia, 64, formerly of Connecticut, passed away in Dalton, Georgia.

Born in New London, Connecticut, Jodi spent most of her school years in Norwich. She was adventurous and independent from the very beginning and was happiest when she was outdoors exploring and getting her hands dirty. She loved digging for antique bottles with her father, climbing trees, searching for sea glass, and spending hours at the creek near New London Beach chasing hermit crabs. Those childhood adventures began a lifelong love of the beach, which was always one of her favorite places to relax and recharge.

Jodi's time as a hospital candy striper during high school sparked her interest in the medical field. She became a Certified Nursing Assistant and worked at William W. Backus Hospital, where she later trained as a kidney dialysis technician and remained for many years. She also worked as a CNA at Uncas on Thames, providing compassionate care to patients with cancer.

After many years in healthcare, Jodi took her career in a completely different direction and became a craps dealer at Foxwoods Resort Casino, where she worked for several years.

Jodi was an avid book collector and a devoted animal lover. She had a soft spot for rescue dogs, especially the ones others might consider too difficult. Jodi never gave up on them. No matter how challenging an animal might be, her patience and love never wavered. During her final months in Dalton, she also discovered a special fondness for hummingbirds and loved watching them outside.

Jodi loved her sisters, her nephews, her great-nephews and great-nieces, and her close-knit circle of friends deeply. Kelly Welsh of Norwich, Connecticut, and Karen Butler of Taftville, Connecticut, were two of her dearest friends and were truly like sisters to her. When Jodi became ill, Karen cared for her with tenderness and devotion, remaining a steady and loving presence by her side through the final chapter of her life.

Jodi also shared a longtime friendship with Karen's husband, Bob Butler. Bob gave Jodi the opportunity to work as a groundskeeper and handywoman and taught her the ropes. The work suited her perfectly. Jodi was curious, capable, eager to learn, and never afraid of hard work or a little dirt under her fingernails.

Jodi was also grateful for her dear friend Fred Edelstein. During a difficult time, Fred welcomed her to stay at his beach house, giving her a peaceful place to relax, regroup, and enjoy the beautiful view. That time by the water meant a great deal to Jodi and became a memory she always treasured.

Anyone who knew Jodi knew that she marched to the beat of her own drum. She was never shy about joining a conversation and certainly never ran out of things to say. She could talk to just about anyone, and her one-of-a-kind laugh could be heard and immediately recognized from anywhere in the room. Jodi was funny, quick-witted, compassionate, and completely herself. She never hesitated to stand up for others or defend what she believed was right. Her humor and unmistakable spirit stayed with her until the very end.

Jodi was preceded in death by her mother, Judith Becker Gavensky, and her father, Ronald Gavensky.

She is survived by her sisters, Fern Michelle Butt and her husband, Dave Butt, of Dalton, Georgia, and Pamela McCollum and her husband, Todd McCollum, of Vero Beach, Florida; her uncle, Barry S. Becker of Phoenix, Arizona; her nephews, Bryan Gavensky of Jensen Beach, Florida, William Butt of Dalton, Georgia, and Justin McCollum and Connor McCollum of Vero Beach, Florida; and several great-nephews and great-nieces. She also leaves behind her beloved friends, including Kelly, Karen, Bob, and Fred, along with the many animals whose lives were better because of her.

Jodi's family would also like to give a special thank-you to Teresa Rose of Norwich, Connecticut. When the family needed a local place to stay while caring for Jodi, Teresa came to their rescue. Her kindness, generosity, and support during such a difficult time will never be forgotten.

A celebration of Jodi's life is being planned in Connecticut for this fall, her favorite time of year. Details will be shared with family and friends once arrangements are finalized.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jodi's honor to a local animal rescue organization.