Paula M. Smith

Paula M. Smith, 67, passed away on December 14, 2018 in Mesa, Arizona. Our mother was born in Cottonwood, AZ on May 13, 1951, fittingly it was Mother’s Day. She cherished the time she spent with her children and grandchildren and would tell anyone who listened about them. Such a child at heart herself, she would try anything her grandkids did, sometimes leading to a trip to the emergency room.

Paula raised her family in St. Johns, AZ where she drove a school bus and enjoyed the small-town atmosphere. She also drove a bus and trained bus drivers for Higley School District. That move to Gilbert, AZ kept her close to those most important to her – her grandbabies. In every job she held she was surrounded by wonderful people who became close friends that kept in touch even after she retired.

Throughout her life, Paula loved her Heavenly Father dearly. Her earthly father also holds a special place in her heart and now he holds her in his arms. The time she spent with her siblings and mother were treasured.

Paula’s sweet smile would light up a room and was absolutely contagious. She enjoyed being creative – stamping, knitting, painting, decorating, and sewing. She made everything from blessing outfits to wedding dresses and veils. Some of her crafts, like dolls, have become family heirlooms for many people.

She is remembered and loved by her children and grandchildren – Danette (Sean) Askew, Talon, Zane (Kassidy); Carly (Dustin) Smith-Wardle, Boston, Baylee, Grae, Oakland; Brett (Dustin) Lee, Payton, Taylor, Reese, Spencer; Erin (Jared) Finch, Connor, Corbin, Bridger, Mason; Shawn (Gina) Smith, Brianna, Ailiana, Owen; Jodi (Lincoln) Proctor, Crewse, Nash, Drew, Knox, Dax; Husband – Ed Smith; Sisters & Brothers – Sonja (Curtis) Crandall, Anna Marie (Aerol) Gruwel, Danny (Jeannie) Petersen, Lynette (Jim) Shelley, Kevin (Jolene) Petersen, Jim (Tori) Beil, Sam Petersen, Julie (Brian) Seavey; Mother – Cecile Adeline Beil.

A visitation will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – Gilbert Highland Ward, 3580 E Houston Ave, Gilbert, AZ on Friday, December 21, 2018, with the service to follow at 11:00am. Interment will take place at 12:00pm on Saturday, December 22, 2018 at Pinedale Cemetery, Pinedale, AZ.