Paul Joseph "Pj" Smith

Paul Joseph ‘PJ’ Smith was born May 28, 1955 in Valparaiso, IN, to the late Joseph A. and Bette J. Smith. He wedded Kimla Jo McMurry on April 4, 2003. Paul was baptized as an adult at Cornerstone Lutheran Church in Carmel, IN. He passed away Thursday, February 3, 2022 at the age of 66.

Paul devoted 48 years of his life to United States Steel where he worked as a millwright beginning at age 19. He worked hard and played harder. Paul loved to travel and could often be found behind the wheel of a truck, RV, or boat. He was an avid golfer and fisherman. He enjoyed many spectator sports and was a fan of the Chicago Blackhawks, Indianapolis Colts, and Dale Earnhardt. He was also an incredible cook and grill master. Paul will be remembered as a great friend, a loving husband, a caring stepdad, and a doting dog dad.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; his mother-in-law, MaryAnn McMurry; and his father-in-law, Frank McMurry. He is survived by his step-daughters: Erin (Gordon) Van Kirk and Khristen (Ken) Voogt; grandchildren: Audrey (Austin) Ross, Griffin Carter, Elle Van Kirk and Eli Hume; brother-in-law: J-Allen (Juliet) McMurry; nephews: Joshua McMurry and Jacob McMurry; and niece: Kaitlyn McMurry.

A memorial service will be held at Cornerstone Lutheran Church, 4850 E. Main St., Carmel, IN on Friday, February 18, 2022 at 11:30 am (EST). Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation from 10:15-11:15 am. Inurnment will take place at the Cornerstone Lutheran Church Columbarium immediately following the service, with a light lunch afterwards.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to: National Rifle Association ( https://donate.nra.org/donate)  or Saluki Tree of Life Alliance (www.stola.org).