Paul Smith

Paul W. Smith, born on the last day of 1943 in Vincennes, Indiana, was a man who lived his life with hands-on dedication and love for his community. Through his work as a Vincennes city firefighter from 1972 until 1998, Paul's commitment to protecting his town was unwavering. His bravery and selflessness were admired by all who knew him, as he always put the needs of others before his own, a trait that extended into his private life.

Paul was also a craftsman of great skill, having found his calling in his father-in-law's footsteps as a licensed plumber. Beginning his career at LM Bud Cox Plumbing, he eventually took over the business, becoming a self-employed plumber. His work was a testament to his meticulousness and determination. Paul's dedication was not only to his work but also to his leisure, as he found solace camping by the river, fishing rod in hand, or at the card table, every other Thursday, surrounded by his buddies. He was a man who understood the importance of balance in life - work, family, and play.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Smith, with whom he shared over six decades of love, laughter, and mutual respect since their marriage on November 22, 1961. Their love story is a testament to their unwavering commitment, producing five sons – Rodney Smith and his wife Liann, Mark Smith and his wife Shari, John Smith and his wife Chris, Doug Smith and his fiancé Ellen Benock, and they will continue to uphold their father's legacy. Paul is also survived by his brother, Rocky Smith and his wife Diane, sister, Vicky Smith; his grandchildren, Jennifer Greentree and her husband Quinn, Bryan Smith and his wife Chelsea, Brandi Hall and her husband Drew, Casey Hartzburge and her husband Aaron, Meghan Smith, Mason Smith, Kady Smith and her fiancé Jonathan Blackwell, Rowdy Wrightsman, Alice Carrie, Ziva Carrie; ten great grandchildren and one on great grandchild on the way. Paul is preceded in death by his son, Mike, and his parents, John and Marjorie Smith, sister Judy Mayhorn and brother Zeke Smith.

Visitation will be held at Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home, 524 Broadway Street, Vincennes, Indiana, 47591 on Tuesday, December 26, 2023, from 11:00am EST. The funeral service will follow at 2:00pm EST in the same location. Larry Howerton will officiate and Paul will be laid to rest in Memorial Park Cemetery next to his son Mike. The Smith family has requested memorial contributions be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital or a charity of the donor's choice.