Paul J. Smith, Jr., age 65 of Quarryville, PA, passed away on Thursday, March 12, 2026. He was the husband of Judith (Snyder) Smith, with whom he celebrated 42 years of marriage on October 22nd. Paul was born in Summit, NJ, son of the late Paul J. & Edith A. (McKenna) Smith. He was a graduate of Chatham High School, Chatham, NJ, where he also attended Morris County Vocational School and then attended County College of Morris. Paul worked for various architectural millwork companies where his projects can be seen in Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York City. Before moving to Pennsylvania, he volunteered with the Chatham Borough Volunteer Fire Company during the 1980's. He enjoyed watching sports especially the New York Yankees and Pitt Panthers, reading history books, going to the Jersey Shore and was known as quite a sketch artist.  Paul was a devoted father taking part in many of his son's activities like coaching soccer and being Cub Scout master. He was diagnosed with Alzheimer's 10 years ago and received great strength and encouragement from family and his mentoring friends at Memory Cafes. Paul's love for woodworking continued through his journey with Alzheimer's making smaller, easier projects out of pallet wood like bird houses and cross wall hangings. He was very open of his situation, speaking out for Alzheimer's awareness and becoming a mentor to many. Paul even went to the Pennsylvania State Capitol to advocate for Alzheimer's awareness and policy changes. Surviving besides his wife is a son Thomas R. Smith at home, 3 siblings: Linda M. (wife of Stephen Fahey) of Williamsburg, VA, Maureen A. (wife of Al Stearn) of Lake Hopatcong, NJ, Richard K. (partner of Dolly Gamerl) of Guatay, CA, many nieces & nephews, as well as his extended Smith & Snyder families. The family would like to thank the staff at Rose City Nursing & Rehab for the attentive & compassionate care Paul received during his 3 years under their care.

Funeral service will take place at the Chestnut Level Presbyterian Church, 1068 Chestnut Level Road, Quarryville, PA, on Monday, March 23rd at 11 a.m., with a time to greet the family from 10 a.m. until time of service. Interment will be in the adjoining cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Paul's honor to the Chatham Borough Volunteer Fire Department Association, 54 Fairmount Avenue, Chatham, NJ 07928, or  Morning Star Hospice & Palliative Care Solutions 2225 Sycamore Street, Suite 410, Harrisburg, PA. 17111.