Paul was born in Portland on January 22, 1952 to Ernest and Dorothy (Duggan) Smith.  He grew up in Knightville and attended South Portland Schools, where he met the love of his life, Nancy Hodgkins in English class in 1970. They married in 1972 and made their home in the Stroudwater neighborhood of Portland, where he resided until his death. Paul started his career as a tire changer at Noyes Tire Co. He progressed to salesman, assistant manager and on to manager.  He moved to Ridlon's Auto Service as the manager and eventually took over ownership in the late 1990's.  He built a business based on honesty and trust, while building relationships with his customers that continued on years after retiring in 2013 due to health issues. Paul had two daughters, Melissa and Allison, whom he adored.  He was a kind and caring man who took several of his daughters' friends under his wing and treated them as his own.  He had an especially unique bond with Skip Edwards, who always affectionately referred to him as "Santa". Together Paul and Nancy created a warm and welcoming home for all.  Many nights stories and laughter were all shared surrounding the kitchen table as Paul stood overlooking from his leaning spot on the island.  The true loves of his life were his five grandchildren: Hailey, Mackenzie, Nathan, Isabelle and Kennedy.  Despite his health, he made each one of them feel special.  His favorite question to ask them was "Who do you love?"  Their response would always be "PAPA". Paul passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 31st surrounded by his loved ones.  He is predeceased by his parents, his brother Walter Wallace, and sisters Mae "Peewee" Bennett and Sharon Bosquette and nephew John Bisson. He is survived by his wife of fifty-two years, Nancy Smith. Daughters Melissa Remington and her husband Marc, Allison Coburn and her husband Stuart   His brothers, Ernest F. Smith Jr "Butch" and his wife Sherri and Kenneth Smith and his wife Pat.  His beloved grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and many special life-long friends. The family would like to thank the staff of the critical care unit at MMC.  A special thank you to Carissa Clarke for taking special care of Paul and the family while he was there. Services will be held Tuesday, February 6th at AT Hutchins Funeral Home, 660 Brighton Ave, Portland.  Visiting hours will be from 1-2pm, followed by a memorial service.