Dr. Paula Pinkston

Paula Pinkston, M.D., a distinguished physician known for her empathy and deep commitment to both science and human connection, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025. Born in 1952 to Howard and Joyce Pinkston, Paula was a devoted sister to Howard Pinkston Jr. and his wife, Roxann, and to Gene Pinkston and his wife, Teddi. On May 25, 1985, she married Dr. Michael T. Watkins, with whom she shared a loving and enduring partnership. She was a proud mother to Steven Watkins and his wife, Bee and to Adrienne Watkins. Her greatest joy came from being a doting grandmother to Malcolm and Penelope Watkins. Paula was also a cherished aunt to Devin Pinkston; Leigh Pinkston and her spouse, Robbie Dunning; Garrett Pinkston; and Brian Pinkston.

Raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Paula spent her early years surrounded by the warmth of family and the wide-open spaces of her father’s farm. She cherished those days with her parents and brothers, building memories rooted in love and laughter, and developing a deep appreciation for education and hard work. At the age of 15, Paula left home to attend Dana Hall School, where she thrived.  Her quiet determination and extraordinary work ethic resulted in her becoming class valedictorian.

Paula received her undergraduate degree from Radcliffe College and went on to earn her M.D. from Harvard Medical School, where she was proud to be an HST (Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology) scholar. After completing her clinical training, Paula went on to conduct groundbreaking research at the National Institutes of Health. Despite these extraordinary academic achievements, Paula never boasted or called attention to herself. Everyone could see that Paula was brilliant but many may not have noticed her most remarkable traits, compassion and empathy.

Paula shared a loving marriage with Dr. Michael T. Watkins, and together they raised two children, Steven and Adrienne, who were the pride and joy of her life. Paula and Michael often said they were incredibly lucky to raise their family on “the best street in the world”—Buchanan Road. More than just neighbors, the Buchanan Road community became an extended family, offering support, friendship, and decades of shared memories. This close-knit circle was a vital part of Paula’s Boston life, and the bonds formed there brought her immense joy, comfort, and a true sense of home.

The family made frequent trips to Memphis creating lasting bonds and cherished memories across generations of extended family. Amongst family, Paula was known for her cutthroat Scrabble play. No matter the opponent, Paula believed that everyone deserved her best game. No one, not her children, nieces or nephews should be spared a fair fight. As a result, she lost only a handful of games, literally a handful. Her sharp wit, love of words, and ability to seize victory in the final turn made every game unforgettable.

Paula enjoyed a long and distinguished career as a pulmonologist, practicing at both Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates. Her work spanned decades, during which she cared deeply for her patients and built lasting, meaningful relationships with her colleagues. For Paula, medicine was a calling that brought her profound joy and purpose. She approached each day with compassion, and she felt deeply fulfilled in the privilege of helping others heal.

Of all the titles Paula held in her life, her favorite by far was “Grammy.” She absolutely adored her grandchildren, Malcolm and Penelope, who were—without question—her favorites. Paula found endless joy in reading books with them, solving puzzles side by side, and sharing laughter over frequent FaceTime calls. Her love for them was boundless, and being their Grammy brought her immeasurable happiness and pride.

Family and friends are invited to honor Paula’s life on Friday, June 13, 2025, at The Robert J. Lawler & Crosby Funeral Home, 1803 Centre Street, West Roxbury. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at noon.

Paula’s legacy lives on not only in the many lives she healed, but in the love, grace, and compassion she gave so freely.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Paula’s memory be made to Rheumatoid Arthritis Foundation. www.helpfightra.org

Click the link below to view Dr. Paula Pinkston's Service via Live Stream.