Paul E. Smith

Paul Earl Smith, 93, went to his heavenly home to live with Jesus on Saturday, August 26, 2023. He resided at The Oasis at Fellowship Square in Surprise, Arizona. Paul was born on March 3, 1930 in Albion, Indiana. He was a beloved father, grandfather, and a good friend to many. Paul’s Christian faith was an essential part of his life. He was known for being kind, caring, a helper to many, and for being a jokester.

A graveside service for Paul E. Smith will take place on October 7, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Violett Cemetery 2818 Violett Road Goshen, Indiana 46526. Immediately following the service, there will be a luncheon held in Paul’s honor at Brenneman Memorial Missionary Church 61115 IN-15 Goshen, Indiana 46528.

Paul E. Smith’s family consists of his wife, Mary L. Smith (deceased), his children, Connie L. Schuller who is married to Al Schuller, Kenneth P. Smith and Diane Smith (deceased) of Peoria, Arizona, Kevin D. Smith of Bristol, Indiana, and Wallace L. Smith (deceased).

Paul Smith is survived by thirteen grandchildren: Jamie Archer, Carissa Marrs, Carla Hawthorne, Catherine Coats, Candace Ballard, Wesley Smith, Kyle Smith, Danielle Flynn, Erik Flynn, Keith Smith, Meagan Smith, Brooke Smith, and Layla Smith.

He also has 10 great-grandchildren: Ashton Yets, Micah Marrs, Asher Marrs, Caylee Hawthorne, Maci Hawthorne, Amari Hawthorne, Tyler Coats, Drew Coats, Brayden Kizer, and Adelena Pfarr.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank W. and Fairy B. (Swihart) Smith, and his siblings, John Smith, Donald Smith, and Patricia Riley.

Paul E. Smith married Mary L. Eckman on March 12, 1950.

Paul graduated from Goshen High School on May 29, 1949.

Paul Smith had been in the construction business with Frank Smith and Sons. Paul’s family had been living in Goshen, Indiana, until they moved to Bristol, Indiana in 1966. At that time, Paul began working at Eby’s Pines Campground, Restaurant, and Roller Skating Rink. He was also heavily involved in planting, pruning, and harvesting Eby’s Christmas Trees. Mr. Eby also had Paul build a housing development for him.

Paul loved taking his family to Lake Michigan to go camping. He enjoyed swimming, boating, fishing, bicycling, and taking his children water skiing. He also enjoyed taking his family to county fairs and amusement parks. Paul enjoyed working with his hands. With the help of his family, Paul built two of the homes his family lived in.

Paul and Mary Smith were members of Brenneman Memorial Missionary Church. Paul was a member of the church choir. He is remembered for singing How Great Thou Art regularly around the house.

Paul started writing poetry in 1950. He was inspired by the beauty he found around him. His subjects included mountains, trees, the desert, birds, and senior citizens. One of his poems was inspired by the love of his life, Mary. Paul and Mary had 54 wonderful years together before she passed on to glory on March 10, 2004. Paul was honored to have several of his poems published.

Yoder-Culp Funeral Home is assisting with local arrangements.