Paul T. Smith, 97, of Columbus, N.C., died Wednesday, August 5, 2015 in White Oak Manor of Tryon.

Born in Polk County, N.C., he was the son of the late James and Minnie Champion Smith. After serving his country in WWII, Paul worked in Polk County before opening Smith’s Supermarket in Columbus with his brother, Cecil. They owned and operated Smith’s Supermarket for 38 years. Mr. Smith also owned and operated the Columbus Launderette for many years as well. He was very involved in the community as a volunteer fireman, and he was a multi-term mayor of Columbus. Paul was a Shriner, member of VFW, member of American Legion, and various other organizations. He had a real love for traveling as he enjoyed going on cruises and taking many trips around the United States.

Surviving are: a son, Thomas Smith (Janet); a daughter, Rita Smith; two grandchildren, Andrea Hayden (Eric) and Carmen Judge; a brother, Horace Smith; a sister, Blanche Green. Also surviving are five great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and his dear companion, Mildred Trippe. Mr. Smith was predeceased by his wife, Colena Hill Smith; brothers, Ralph, Clarence, and Cecil Smith, and sisters, Pauline Gosnell and Mary Lancaster.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, August 8, 2015 in the McFarland Funeral Chapel with Rev. Vince Hefner officiating.

The family will receive friends from 1-1:45 p.m. prior to the service.

Burial will be in Polk Memorial Gardens.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, 130 Forest Glen Drive, Columbus, NC 28722, or to a charity of one’s choice.

An online guest register is available at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com.

McFarland Funeral Chapel
Tryon, N.C.