September 28, 1938 – September 10, 2025
Paula Smith, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and creative spirit.
Born on September 28, 1938, in South Bend, Ind., Paula had an early appreciation for the natural world – a love that would continue to shape her life and art. She attended Indiana University, where she cultivated her lifelong curiosity and went on to raise two children, later becoming a proud grandmother to five grandchildren.
In 1972, Paula found her true artistic calling and became a watercolor artist. She studied under renowned artist Floyd Hopper and was a dedicated member of the Hamilton County Artists’ Association. Her award-winning work captured the serene beauty of wildlife, birds, and especially the iconic birch trees of northern Michigan – an area dear to her heart. Her love for Mullett Lake in northern Michigan was unmatched; it remained a cherished place of peace and inspiration throughout her life.
Her artwork received numerous accolades, including First Place in the Watercolor Division at the Atlanta Art Fair and a Purchase Award Prize at the Pen Women’s Indiana State Art Exhibit. Her pieces resonated with viewers, reflecting her deep connection to nature.
Paula spent many years as Assistant Principal Secretary at North Central High School. She enjoyed being around the students and working with all the administrators. She worked there from 1989 to 2003.
Paula had a spunky personality and a wide range of passions. She adored animals, followed horse racing with enthusiasm, and always made time for a game of bridge, a good book, or a scary movie. She loved the color red, the music of Rod Stewart, and being surrounded by beauty.
She shared a close bond with her sister, Betty Lou Kyle, and together they were affectionately known as the “Laughing Ladies,” sharing a lot of time on funny projects and escapades up north.
Paula’s legacy lives on in the brushstrokes of her paintings, the memories she created with loved ones, her son Jeffrey Bryant Merchant (Nancy), daughter Julie Lynn Ehrens (Ron), and her grandchildren who named her Grandma Indiana: Alex Ehrens, Bailey Ehrens, Ryan Merchant, Sean Merchant, and Nicole Merchant. She is also survived by many other family members including her loving nephew and nieces, John Kyle (Marcia), Kathy Abrell (Steve) and Amy Bradburn (Tom).