Paula Ruth Smith, age 78, of Marshfield, Missouri, passed away peacefully at her home on October 16, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on December 7, 1947, in St. Louis, Missouri. Paula left this earthly life to meet her maker and Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, and enter her heavenly home.

Paula was proceeded in death by her father Charles C. King, her mother, Ruby E King (Ames), her brother, Lonnie R. King , her sister Sandra Cox (King) , and her beloved granddaughters, Rachel Smith, and Christina Smith.

She leaves behind the love of her life and devoted husband, Robert Smith of Marshfield, Missouri. Together, they shared a lifetime of love, adventure, and treasured memories. She loved to go to the lake, go camping and ride the pontoon boat with him. In her final days, Paula often spoke of Robert, her true love and always express gratitude for the exceptional care and unwavering devotion he showed her throughout her illness.

Paula is survived by her sister, Brenda Ray, of Imboden Arkansas. By her children: son and daughter-in-law, Hubert and Karen Smith of Marshfield, Missouri. Son, Chris Smith of Marshfield, Missouri, son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Amy, Nunnally  of Marshfield  Missouri, son, Dwight Nunnally of Imboden, Arkansas, son, John Nunnally of Imboden, Arkansas.

Daughter and son-in-law, April and Steve Throckmorton of Marshfield, Missouri, daughter and son-in-law, Mandy and Neil Teifke of Marshfield , Missouri. She also leaves behind many grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family, members, and friends who were blessed to know and love her.

Paula was the most genuine, Loving and selfless person. She lived her life with an infectious smile, a positive attitude, and an unwavering faith in God. Her trust in Jesus, guided her and her family. They take comfort and knowing she is now rejoicing in heaven.

She was famous for creating unforgettable holiday celebrations for her children and grandchildren. One cherished family tradition was her Easter parties, where she would happily dress as the Easter bunny and organize egg hunts, complete with the coveted golden egg. No matter how old her children grandchildren became everyone joined in the fun because Paula made every gathering special.

She was also known for a wonderful sense of humor, her endless supply of jokes and are unforgettable “Paulaism’s” that brought laughter to everyone around her. Paula loved traveling and creating new adventures with Robert. Whether near or far, the two enjoyed exploring together and making memories that would last a lifetime.

Though our hearts are broken by her loss, we celebrate a life well lived a woman whose love touched countless lives. Her kindness, faith, laughter, and devotion to her family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. Paula will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered until the day we are reunited with her again in heaven.

“Well done, good and faithful servant” Matthew 25:23

Visitation will be held 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at Greenlawn Funeral Home East, 3540 E. Seminole, in Springfield, Missouri.

Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m., in the funeral home.  Burial will follow at Danforth Cemetery in Strafford.

Care has been entrusted to Greenlawn Funeral Home East.