April 20, 1944 – February 22, 2026

Paul J Smith entered eternal rest on February 22, 2026, at the age of 81, following a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Diagnosed on Christmas Eve of 2025, his journey moved quickly, but he faced it with quiet strength and enduring faith.

Born on April 20, 1944, in Marlin, Texas, to Paul L. Smith and Esther Richardson, Paul was rooted in faith and discipline from an early age. It was also in Marlin that he met the woman who would become his greatest companion, Pearlie Smith, whom he married on June 25, 1966.

Paul served in the United States Air Force from 1962 to 1966, then built a steady career with IBM and American Airlines, marked by integrity and consistency. Ordained as a Methodist minister in 1974, he faithfully served as a pastor for many years. In 2001, he graduated from RHEMA Bible Training Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Even after stepping away from active pastoring, Paul remained a man of deep faith and strong biblical knowledge, and was an active member of Create Church in Richardson, Texas.

An avid reader, Paul filled his home with books and preferred paper pages over screens. He loved Scripture and could quote it with ease. He had a dry sense of humor, told wonderfully detailed stories, and possessed a memory that held onto facts and moments others might forget. Out of sheer determination, he even taught himself to speak Spanish.

Paul was also a prolific and exceptionally creative artist. He loved to paint, often capturing scenes from everyday life with careful, attentive detail. His artwork reflected the same thoughtful way he observed everything around him.

More than anything, Paul loved being present for his family. He showed up for every graduation, game, celebration, and concert for his grandchildren, no matter the weather or the length of the program.

He leaves to cherish his memory his twin children, Preston Smith (spouse, Tanya Smith) and Princess Smith-Eboagu (spouse, David Eboagu); his beloved grandchildren, Daniel Eboagu, Hannah Eboagu, Naia Smith, and Callie Smith; his brothers David Richardson (spouse, Frances Richardson), Joey Richardson (spouse, the late Geri Richardson), and Michael Richardson (spouse, Jeanie Richardson); and his sister Sharlotte Richardson.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Pearlie Smith; his brothers Ernest Richardson and Russell Richardson; and his sister Brenda Richardson.

Paul lived his convictions quietly and faithfully, leaving behind a legacy of faith, creativity, knowledge, and deep devotion to family.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

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