Paul Smith

Paul Dwaine Smith, 85, passed away on Sunday, July 13th, in Keller, Texas. He was born on September 26, 1939, in Dumont, Texas, to Paul and Beatrice Smith.

 At age 14, Paul met the love of his life, LaNora Bolton. They married on August 3, 1958 and had a marriage admired by all who knew them. To most, he was Paul, a good friend, a superb barber, a gun enthusiast, and a leader in his church. To his family, he was known simply as Pop-a name that exuded warmth, kindness, caring, and unconditional love, everything you would expect from a sweet, quick witted, and good-natured West Texas Cowboy. One of Pop's signature qualities was his endless stream of clever "Popisms" that kept us all laughing and hoping for more. Paul modeled kindness and generosity in everything he did, no matter the circumstances. But above all, he was the family's rock-the one who always showed up, held us together, and always made time when it mattered most. 

 Paul didn't just love his family-he lived for them. Whether he was checking in to make sure we were okay or lightening the mood with a perfectly timed joke, he was always there. His ever-present baseball cap became his signature look, and he delighted in swapping out hats each day from his impressive collection. We will miss his smile and that mischievous twinkle in his eye.

 If you knew Paul, your life was richer for it and he will be greatly missed but easily remembered. In that spirit, look for the opportunity to use one of his Popisms this week; we promise it will bring a smile to everyone's face: "You're as handy as a pocket on a shirt", "Love is like lightning; it can strike an outhouse or a mansion", "We started out with nothing and through real good management we still have most of it", and finally," I'm not turned around. I just don't know where I am".

Paul is survived by his son Kenneth Smith and wife Jan; daughter LaNelia Ramette and husband John; son Glendon Smith and wife Holly; grandchildren Ryne and Anne Smith, Connor Smith, Christina Ramette, Blaine and Sara Smith, Courtney and Daniel Foley, Jake Bashuk, Noa Bashuk, and Aaron Bashuk; great granddaughters Sutton and Austin Smith. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife LaNora, daughter-in-law Theresa Lee Smith, and grandson Michael Ramette.