Paul E. Smith Jr.

1934 - 2025

Paul E. Smith Jr.
11/22/1934 - 08/19/2025
Paul E. Smith, Jr. passed away peacefully with his family in San Diego, California on August 19, 2025. He's survived by his wife of 25 years, Suzanne; his children Jennifer, Scott and Karen; Daughter-in-law Cathy, Son-in-law Larry and former wife Judy. He was born in East Liverpool, Ohio, on November 22, 1934, the eldest of three siblings and last surviving of them.
Paul lived a long and adventurous life, having served 30 years in the U.S. Navy and attaining the rank of Captain. He toured the world while on active duty. He was a naval aviator credited with over 300 carrier landings and later served three tours at the Pentagon in Washington DC. His final station post was at Naval Air Station Alameda, CA. He would later cite his most memorable post as Quonset Point Rhode Island where he was attached to the VS-32 Squadron and flying anti-submarine naval aircraft. Upon retiring from military service he relocated to Santa Barbara, California. A lifelong member of various naval aviation associations he found enjoyment with the camaraderie of fellow fliers and met regularly with "Harry's Fly Squadron" at Harry's Plaza Café in Santa Barbara, California. The "Squadron" was sometimes entertained by Jonathan Winters and became a place where aviators swapped remembrances. During that period, Paul met Suzanne Collinsworth, whom he later married in La Jolla, California. The couple chose San Diego as their final post and moved into the Rancho Bernardo community. While in Rancho Bernardo, Paul continued to serve the US military as a docent on the USS Midway for over 10 years.
Outside of his military service, Paul enjoyed spending time with family and friends but especially enjoyed his years traveling with Suzanne and exploring the world. They kept the adventure going with trips to Europe, Cuba, Alaska, and other locales while enjoying wine clubs and social gatherings at home. He was never one to slow down.
His kids love him dearly and miss him. He was the dad that was always present. He was always ready to help you, encourage you, be your friend, and be the rock you could rely on. His advice lives in us forever.
To others, he also served. He served the American Cancer Society as a fundraiser, having received several accommodations for his work and found time to help with other worthy causes.
Paul's life was a good one. A life worth celebrating – one of fun, family, and adventure. His memory lives on by his example. He showed what it means to care and gave meaning to a well-lived life. We're forever grateful to have shared our life and time with him.
The family will hold a private service in his memory on Friday, September 26th at the Santa Barbara Cemetery, 901 Channel Drive, Santa Barbara CA 93108.