Paul Eugene Smith (88) of Louisville

Paul Eugene Smith, 88, of Louisville, Illinois, went to be with the Lord at 1:52 pm Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at his home.

Paul was born on October 10, 1935, in rural Louisville, the son of Enoch Coban and Zora (Montgomery) Smith. In 1958 Paul joined the US Army and was stationed in Germany as a motor vehicle operator for 2 years. He was united in marriage with Francis M. Hill on March 4, 1967, at the First Christian Church in Louisville, and to this union four daughters were born. They shared 47 years of marriage before Francis preceded him in death on December 8, 2014. Paul was a farmer and a member of the Laborer’s Local 1197. He loved mushroom hunting and was an avid sports fan. He had a lifelong love for the St. Louis Cardinals. He enjoyed following local sports and visiting with family and friends.

He is survived by daughters: Shana Engel and husband Harold of Kirksville, Missouri, Shara McCrary and husband Elton of Louisville, and Susan Fleener and husband Justin of Bible Grove; brother: Lyle (Leah) Smith of Toledo, Illinois; sisters: Erma (Bob) Jones of Louisville, Merle Smith of Watson; 9 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife: Francis Smith; an infant daughter: Sharon Lynn Smith; sister: Una Marie Colclasure.

Memorial services to celebrate the life of Paul will be held at 11:00 am Monday March 4, 2024, at the McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville with Harold Engel officiating. A visitation will be held on Monday morning at the funeral home where friends may call from 10:00 to 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Paul’s memory to the North Clay Sports Boosters, and will be accepted through the funeral home. To sign the guestbook online or share a memory of Paul, please visit by clicking here.