Paul "PG" Smith

Paul “PG” Smith, 82 of Norwich, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on February 3, 2024, at his residence.

He was born on September 9, 1941, in Cambridge, Ohio, son of the late Andrew William Smith Sr. and Hilda “Laverne” (Little) Smith. Paul was a graduate from New Concord High School, class of 1959. He played football and basketball, where he earned All MVL honors. 

Paul married his high school sweetheart, Frances (Baker) Smith on September 13, 1959. He was a 55-year member of the New Concord/Norwich Masonic Lodge and a 50-year member of the Cambridge Scottish Rite and Order of the Eastern Stars. Paul owned and operated PG Smith Drywall Inc. of Ohio for 20 years. In 1984, he relocated to Central Florida, forming Premier Drywall Systems Inc. with his son-in-law, Andy Tavenner for 20 years. He later founded Ceilings of Distinction Inc. in 2000, a design studio to teach his master craftsmanship. Paul was awarded the 2004 National Excellence in Design by Walls and Ceilings Magazine.

Paul attended the Pleasant Grove Methodist Church. One of his greatest life pleasures was being involved in the White Cross Ministry, spreading the word of God. In his spare time, he enjoyed keeping up with the Little Muskie’s football and basketball and riding his Harley. Above all, he loved spending his time with his family.

Paul is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Frances (Baker) Smith; 4 daughters: Veronica (Jeffrey) Ghelerter, Valerie (Curtis) Turner, Vonda (Andy) Tavenner, Vickie (Jim) Kinnan; grandchildren, Melissa (Michael Keller) Caldwell, James (Jena) Caldwell, Tony Caldwell, Cory (Debra) Caldwell, Cameron Turner, Chad (Hannah) Tavenner, Jordan (Tori) Tavenner, Abbey Ghelerter, Katie Ghelerter; great grandchildren, Talon Batista, Deegan Batista, Malaki Keller, Harper Tavenner, Riley Tavenner, CJ Tavenner, Ryan Caldwell, Mia Caldwell, Zoey Caldwell; brother, Andrew (Sally) William Smith Jr.; special friends, Dianne Burwell, Wayne Burwell, Charlie Burwell; several cousins; special coffee gang at Arby’s; and special fur baby, Nikki. 

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his niece, Brenda Nethers; and nephew, Christopher Smith.

Paul participated in the Anatomical Gift Program at Boonshoft School of Medicine at Wright State University for research. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday March 16th at 11:00 AM at the Pleasant Grove Methodist Church with Pastor Eddie Warne officiating. A luncheon will follow.

The Smith family would like to thank Hospice of Guernsey for their caring support. In honor of Paul, donations can be made to Hospice of Guernsey.

To sign the online guest book and leave condolences, please visit www.delongbakerlanning.com

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