Paola Hernandez-Sosa

Paola Hernandez-Sosa was born on February 18, 1980, in Orange County, California, and passed away on September 23, 2025.

Paola worked as a manager at several restaurants since moving to Arkansas, where her strong work ethic and welcoming personality made her well-loved by both her team and customers. This is how she started her wonderful journey of making beautiful connections with the people around her.  Every place she worked at was special to Paola, but especially Skinny J's, where he held her first General Manager position and was the most flourishing time for everyone there.  She had a gift for connecting with people and making everyone feel at home.

Family meant everything to Paola. She loved movies—especially the Harry Potter series—and enjoyed cookouts, family BBQs, and gathering everyone together around her table. Thanksgiving was her favorite holiday, and she poured her heart into preparing a feast each year. She was a natural hostess, a true matriarch who made sure no one ever left her home hungry or without laughter.

Paola was spirited, social, and full of life. She loved collecting gnomes, a playful hobby that brought her joy. She was strong-willed yet deeply kind, and she gave her all to her family. Nothing mattered more to her than her children—Joseph, Naomi, Mia, and Julian.

She is survived by her father, Gelacio; mother, Marisela; her siblings Aracely and husband Jesus, Rosangel and husband Arturo, Alberto , and Christoval; nieces and nephews Oliver, Abram, Hendrix, Jackson, and Mila; her special cousin Elva ; and many other family members and friends who loved her dearly.

Visitation will be held on October 1, 2025, from 5:00–6:00 PM at Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton (322 N Market Street), followed by a memorial service from 6:00–7:00 PM.

Paola’s light, warmth, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home.  Online guestbook:  www.SmithFamilyCares.com.