Obituary of Pauline (Polly) Persley

Pauline (Polly) Persley, 58, of Aptos, CA, passed away on March 24, 2024, at her home surrounded by her close family and friends. She was born on May 19, 1965, in Kilwinning, Scotland. In her early 20s, she decided to try the California life and lived with family in San Diego. After six months of dancing and sunshine, she knew California would be part of her future. She returned to Scotland to begin her nursing training before officially moving to the United States in 1990, planting roots and making Santa Cruz County her home. In 1992, Pauline started her career as a dialysis nurse at Satellite Dialysis, becoming a manager of the clinic in the early 2000s and retiring in 2014 to focus on family and enjoy all the best things in life. Pauline’s compassionate and generous heart went beyond the 22 years of nursing practice. She supported friends and family with great care and knowledge as a nurse, helping those close to her whenever needed. Her support didn’t stop there, she also volunteered in the community from serving Thanksgiving meals to administering vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pauline touched so many lives with her thoughtfulness, kindness, and grace. On October 7, 2000, Pauline married Clyde in an intimate ceremony marking the beginning of an adventurous 24-year journey. On August 23, 2004, they welcomed Alexandria into the world, completing their family. Pauline was unapologetically her own person, but also a proud and dedicated wife and mother — the heart of their family, which will never be the same without her. Pauline brought sparkle everywhere she went. She will be remembered for her laughter and wicked sense of humor, making her the life of the party no matter the occasion. Her vibrant energy attracted those around her to live and enjoy life to the fullest, often hosting friends and family. Her love for music brought her to many concerts she attended — from Elton John to Donnie Osmond. Pauline’s can-do, decisive, no-nonsense, radiant, and loving personality is already dearly missed. Pauline was passionate about tennis and her tennis friends. She was a fierce competitor. Her sharp and powerful forehand was legendary, making her in demand on the court. She was invited to play on countless competitive teams as well as social tennis. Win or lose, Pauline was always ready to celebrate with her team and usually provided the chardonnay or champagne! Pauline is survived by her husband Clyde Persley and daughter Alexandria Persley; sister Alison Veitch with husband John Veitch; sister Jacqueline McGlone with son Alan Allison and daughter Chelsea Allison; cousin Stephen Gemmell with wife Kelli Gemmell; sisters-in-law Teresa and Delcyne Persley with nieces and nephews; and close family friend Judy Boemer. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph’s Church on Friday, April 12 at 11 am with refreshments to follow on location at the Parish. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to donate to the Visiting Angels Foundation in memory of Pauline.