Paulanea "Paula" Smith, 66, Fairmount, passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at her home surrounded by her family. She was born in Marion, Indiana, on December 24, 1957, to Charles T. and Glendoris (Wickham) Blanton, Sr. On April 28, 1990, she married Allen D. Smith.
Paula graduated from Marion High School in 1976, where she was actively involved in the Marion High Steppers and Pom Poms. She went on to receive her associate's degree from Ivy Tech. Paula began her career working at CVS Pharmacy, where she hired in as a cashier. She advanced in the company to become a retail manager and eventually a pharmacy tech. She retired after 30 years of service. She also worked at Shopper's Hotline, Doles Market in Fairmount, and Hooks/Revco.
Paula enjoyed crafting, shopping, thrifting, and traveling, especially cruising. Her favorite place was the ocean. More than anything, she loved her family, and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her life. She enjoyed attending her Tuesday night couples’ dinner with her family and special friends. Paula also enjoyed bowling and was a former girl scout and girl scout leader.
Survivors include her husband, Allen Smith; son, William (Michelle) Eads of Fairmount; daughter, Amber D. Mechling of Marion; brothers, Charles T. Blanton, Jr., and Greg A. Blanton; sister, Tina R. (Bruce) Blanton-Lizar; grandchildren, Cole (Bridgette Clark) Sloderbeck, William B. (Bethani) Eads, Taelor Eads, Abigail Eads, and Olivia Mechling; great-grandsons, Barrett Eads and Lincoln A. Wilson; aunt, Mary Jo Wickham; niece, Emilee Lizar; nephew, Phillip Lizar; mother-in-law, Betty Smith; special sissy, Shelly Hazlett; sister-in-law, Tamara Smith; brother-in-law, Jeff Smith; and several special friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; step-mother, Faye Blanton; step-brother, Gregory Combs; and father-in-law, Dale Smith.
The family will receive visitors from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
On Thursday, July 18, 2024, a funeral service to celebrate Paula's life will take place at North Chapel at 2:00 pm. Additional visitation will precede the service, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Marion-Grant County Humane Society P.O. Box 1921, Marion, IN 46952.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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