Paula Smith

Thursday April 13, 2023

Rolling Meadows, IL

Today, Paula Smith (Okun) passed away at the age of 79. 

Paula was the mother of Todd, Samantha, Darren and mother-n-law to Jade. She was also a loving stepmother to Krissi Smith, Merriah, Charles and Alex. She was the wife of Richard Smith and previously, of Marvin Guccione, grandmother to Paul, Blake, Siena, Giancarlo, Dario and the daughter of Jack and Shirley Okun, sister to Fred, sister-in-law to Nancy and Lynda, Aunt to Steve and Ric; and cousin of Alice, Gemma, Andrew, Jason, Sam, Max and Cate.  Paula was a dear friend of Lenore, Jack, Helene, Nicole, Adam,  Stephanie, Linda, Carmen, Mary Anne, Janice, Beverly and Al - and many others who adored her.  

Paula was the epitome of eccentric extremes - a blend between Joan Rivers and Phyllis Diller.  She knew how to make people feel great about themselves and illuminated others with her sense of humor and infectious laugh.  

Paula loved to cook, workout and dance.  She had a passion for women’s apparel and for many years, owned a successful fashion-clothing boutique called “Paula.”  Paula was fanatical about her cats and dogs.  Additionally, she was known as a “dog whisperer.” Every night at bedtime, she had an hour-long discussion with her Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Utah and Sada. 

Paula is now at home with God and has reunited with her loved ones. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please make a donation to the favorite charity of your choice - in her honor. 

Thank You and God Bless - Always.

Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options of Schiller Park, Illinois.