Arin Rudd

Paula Phillips McGuiness

Florida Mortuary Funeral & Cremation Services - Tampa

Altogether<br/>4307 Vineland Road, Suite H-17-19, Orlando, FL 32811<br/>For more information, visit our website at <a href='www.altogetherfuneral.com'>www.altogetherfuneral.com</a><br/>Copyright © 2025 FPG Intermediate Holdco, LLC

With heavy hearts, we share the news of the passing of Paula Phillips McGuiness.

Born in Tucson, Arizona, on February 21, 1948, Paula passed away peacefully in Tampa, Florida, on January 7, 2026, with her family by her side and wrapped in love. From the very beginning, Paula lived life with intention, high standards, and a sense of humor that could light up any room—often punctuated by her signature red nails, perfectly polished and unapologetically bold, much like the woman herself.

Paula was a remarkable mother, sister, mentor, and friend. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Courtney Weaver, and son-in-law, William Weaver. She also leaves behind her cherished sister and brother-in-law, Erin and Terry Zaback; her niece Elise Sweeney and husband Zach; and her nephew Kyle Zaback, his wife Paige, and their children Ashton and Jordan, all of whom brought her great pride and joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Miriam and E.C. Phillips, and her sister, Julie Messina.

Her professional legacy is nothing short of extraordinary. Paula began her career at St. Joseph’s Hospital in 1972 as a staff nurse in the operating room. By 1978, her leadership abilities were undeniable, and she became Director of Surgical Services. In 1983, she developed and opened the Open Heart Program, followed by the planning, design, and development of the Same Day Surgery Center, which opened in 1988.

Over the next several decades, Paula took on numerous complex projects, earning a reputation for candor, fairness, loyalty, high standards, and a laser focus on quality and patient experience. In 2000, she played a key role in planning St. Joseph’s Hospital–North, and in 2005 she was named Chief Operating Officer, overseeing its opening in 2010. She was also instrumental in the design and development of St. Joseph’s Hospital–South, which opened in 2015. Paula retired in 2020, concluding an astonishing 48-year career of service, leadership, and impact. She was a trailblazer, a trusted mentor, and a phenomenal leader whose influence will be felt for generations.

Beyond her professional achievements, Paula was simply fabulous—independent, driven, caring, supportive, funny, sarcastic, humble, and pragmatic. She led with integrity and directness, holding herself and others to standards that brought out the very best. She also had a remarkable eye for design—an attention to detail and aesthetic that showed up not only in the hospitals she helped shape, but in the warmth, style, and intention of her own
home. Though private by nature, her generosity and kindness were unmistakable. To those lucky enough to know her well, she was a fantastic sister, a great friend, an inspiring mentor, and an amazing mom.

Paula loved to laugh, spend time with friends and family, relax by the pool, read a good book, and travel. Whether creating beautiful, functional spaces or simply being fully present with the people she loved, she showed up with care, thoughtfulness, and intention for the moments that mattered most.

At Paula’s request, no memorial service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to St. Joseph’s Hospital–North, a place that reflects her life’s work, dedication, and enduring legacy.

Paula leaves behind a powerful example of leadership, love, and living life on your own terms—preferably with a great sense of humor and signature red nails.

When words can't fully express what we want to say, sometimes a small gift can. Visit our Memorial Store for personalized gifts, keepsake jewelry and to plant a memorial tree.

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Paula Phillips McGuiness Obituary | Altogether