Paula Theresa Smith Fortner

Paula Theresa Smith Fortner, born on October 16, 1958, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2025, at the age of 66. She dedicated her life to caring for others as a compassionate hospice nurse, as well as volunteering for 40 years at Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, providing comfort and support to countless families during their times of need. From a young age, Paula showed a deep sense of empathy and a calling to care for others. For many years Paula volunteered as a Girl Scout Leader. She truly enjoyed this role. She was committed to fostering leadership, commitment and a love for the outdoors. She was a mentor, friend and a positive role model. Paula’s career started out in the business world but her desire and determination to be a nurse led her to change careers. Paula was able to go to nursing school while working in an office. She graduated from Brenau University in 2008 and started her new career as a Hospice Nurse. She embraced this new path with passion and unwavering commitment. Paula understood the unique challenges of end-of-life care and worked tirelessly to ensure that patients and families felt secure, respected, and supported. Many lived were positively affected because of her caring and compassionate spirit. Paula was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Robert and Marion Smith; her brother, Thomas Smith; and her nephew, Robert Smith. She leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory: her brother, John Smith, and his wife Nancy; her sister-in-law, Sally Smith; her nieces and nephews, Jessica McGahee and her husband Tom, Jonathan Smith and his wife Tara, Alan Smith, Todd Smith and his wife Natalie, and Andy Smith and his wife Janee. Paula was also a cherished great-aunt to Adrian, Claire, Will, Charlotte, Thomas, Isaiah, Brandon, and Kimberly. A celebration of Paula's life will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025, at 3:00 PM at the Chapel of Parrott Funeral Home. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation one hour prior to the service to honor and remember a woman whose kindness and dedication touched the lives of many. Paula will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of care and compassion will live on in the hearts of those she served and loved.

Paula Theresa Smith Fortner

October 16, 1958 - July 9, 2025