Paula Smith

Paula Jean Smith, of Elizabethtown, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2026, at UNC Chapel Hill Medical Center. Born on September 23, 1961, in Elizabethtown, Paula devoted her life to her family and community, leaving behind a legacy of love and commitment that touched all who knew her.

With heavy hearts, our family shares the passing of Paula Smith. She was a woman who loved the Lord and whose presence filled our lives with warmth, strength, and unconditional love. She was a simple woman who found happiness in life’s greatest blessings—time with family, beach vacations, mountain trips, laughter, and making memories together. She loved life and appreciated the beauty of everyday moments.

Paula’s journey began as the cherished daughter of the late Paul William Barnes, Sr. and Ruby Mae Baker Barnes who preceded her in passing along with her brother, the late Ronnie Ray Barnes, Sr. Her greatest joy in life was her family. She deeply loved her sons, daughters-in-law, and cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren. Whether cheering them on at their activities, sharing stories, or simply being present, she treasured every second with them.  She is survived by her devoted sons, Jeffrey Smith and Dalton Smith, along with his wife Krishna.  She was a beloved sister to Paul Barnes Jr., and his wife Denise.  Her heart was full and her home was joyful with the presence of her grandchildren Aubree, Addyson, and Waylon, who brought her endless happiness. Paula also shared a special connection with her nieces, Grayson and Cameron and her nephews, Ethan and Ronnie Jr. Her family was rounded out with the loving companionship of her fur baby, Buddy, who provided comfort and joy in her later years.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Bladen-Gaskins Funeral Home, in Elizabethtown, NC. Funeral Services will be held on Monday, April 27, 2026, at 11:00 AM in the Bladen-Gaskins Elizabethtown Chapel. Burial will follow in the Barnes Family Cemetery located in Garland, North Carolina

In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorial contributions be made to Samaritan's Purse in honor of her memory.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing her legacy of faith, love, and devotion to family will live on in all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.