Paul H. Smith, 68, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 5, 1956, in Valdosta, Georgia, to Lonnie and Pauline Hopson Smith. Paul was raised in Jasper, Florida, before joining the United States Navy in 1974.

A proud and dedicated patriot, Paul honorably served in the United States Navy for 22 years, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer. During his military career, Paul served as a Chief Cryptologic Technician, Information Warfare Officer, and Operational Intelligence Officer —responsible for analyzing, decoding, and safeguarding sensitive communications vital to national security. The mission he was most proud of was being selected as the Independent Duty Officer responsible for leading the establishment of the first overseas detachment for a high priority Joint Chief of Staff compartmented Information Operations/Information Warfare system. Throughout his career, Paul was awarded 2 Navy Commendation Medals, 3 Navy Achievement Medals, 4 Overseas Service Ribbons, 2 Humanitarian Service Medals, and a National Defense Service Medal. With a deep commitment to duty, his contributions played a meaningful part in protecting his fellow service members and advancing the mission of the U.S. Navy.

Paul loved life and lived it fully. He built a beautiful life with his beloved wife, Cheryl (Cheri), and together they shared many happy years filled with love, laughter, and adventure. They traveled together extensively to multiple countries, experienced different cultures and had two beautiful daughters to complete their family. Paul had a passion for the outdoors and could often be found riding his motorcycle, working with his hands in his workshop, or tending to his vegetable garden. After the birth of his cherished grandson, Tucker, that garden became a shared project and special bond between the two. Paul enjoyed spending time with Tucker and took great joy in teaching him life lessons and creating precious memories that will last a lifetime.

Paul is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Cheryl Tucker Smith; his daughters, Jennifer Peterson (Derek) of Pensacola, FL, and Paula Smith of Pinellas Park, FL; his treasured grandsons, Tucker and Tyler (Joy); his brothers, Edward Smith (Vivian) and Charles Smith (Alice); and his sisters, Evelyn Vlasak (Tom), Gloria Crampton, and Kay Allen (Jim). He was preceded in death by his parents, Lonnie and Pauline Smith, and his brothers, Wallace, Robert, and Rodney Smith.

Paul's life will be honored at a funeral service on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at New Hope Baptist Church in Jasper, FL. A time of visitation will be held prior to the service at 10:00 a.m., and interment will follow in New Hope Cemetery.

Paul will be remembered for his deep love for his family, his service to his country, and his generous, adventurous spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, dedication, and love.