Paul Albert Smith, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on Friday, April 3, 2026 at the age of 79, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and deep love for family and others.

Paul was born on March 14, 1947, in Payson, Utah, to Albert George Smith and Dorothy June Houser. He graduated from Spanish Fork High School in 1965 and soon after served a faithful 2½-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Western Samoa—a time that shaped his lifelong devotion to his Savior, Jesus Christ.

Paul attended both Brigham Young University and the University of Utah. While at the University of Utah, he met the love of his life, Marlene Crawford. They were married for time and all eternity on June 30, 1972, in the Manti Utah Temple. That same year, Paul graduated as a Physical Therapist and began his career in Lander, Wyoming, where he worked at the Wyoming State Training School (Wyoming Life Resource Center).

Wyoming became a place Paul deeply loved. It was there he embraced the outdoors and shared that passion with family and friends. He found joy in hunting, camping, horseback riding, hiking, fishing, snowmobiling, river rafting, and backpacking. He was always eager to invite others along for the adventure. His love language was spending quality time and creating countless memories with those he loved.

Above all, Paul’s life was centered on his faith in Jesus Christ and his devotion to his family. He is survived by his loving and supportive wife, Marlene, their children: Jodi (John) Jorgensen, Jake (Kenna) Smith, Amanda (Bryan) Backenstoss, and Abby (Roger) Longhurst and 12 Grandchildren. He cherished his family deeply and valued relationships above all else.

Paul was known for his generosity, freely giving of his time, talents, and possessions. He believed people were always more important than things, and he lived that principle daily.

He served faithfully in many callings within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including in Bishoprics, Elders quorum leadership, Stake young men’s organizations, and on the High Council. However, his favorite calling was serving for many years as a Scoutmaster, where he mentored and influenced countless young men through the Boy Scouts of America.

Paul also participated in the “Second Rescue” of the Willie and Martin handcart companies. This included helping prepare temple work and contributing to improvements at historic sites connected to the original rescues — a reflection of his deep respect for faith, history, and sacrifice.

Paul will be remembered for his steady faith, adventurous spirit, generous heart, and unwavering love for his family and all who knew him. His life was a testament to discipleship, service, and the joy found in uplifting others.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026 at 11 AM in the Payson Utah Stake Center, 711 S. 600 E., Payson, Utah 84651. Viewings will be held on Thursday evening from 6-8 PM and also 9:30-10:30 AM prior to service. Burial will follow in the Spanish Fork Cemetery.