Columbus, OH — Dr. Paul B. Smith, 85, a 55-year resident of Plainfield, Ill., died April 19, 2021, at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born Oct. 28, 1936, in Junction, Ill., to his loving late parents, Paul and Louise Smith-Brugger.

He was the cherished husband of Delores H. (nee Hannah). They were married Jan. 30, 1960. He was also the beloved father of Paul Jeffrey, Brett De Chaine, and Dr. Garrett Barton (Tomoko); adored grandpa of Tia and Grace; and dearest brother of Mary Alice Luckett.

Dr. Smith graduated from Ridgway High School, Gallatin County, Ill., and the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. He enlisted in the United States Army and became a Captain, stationed at New Cumberland Gap, Pa.

He served as the veterinarian for harness Racing for the Illinois Horse Racing Board for 27 years and was inducted into the Illinois Harness Horsemen’s Hall of Fame, which was the group that he regulated. Dr. Smith was also appointed by both Gov. Edgar and Gov. Thompson as Commissioner on the Illinois Racing Board.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Boys Town Father Flanagan House, 14153 Grodinsky Circle, Boys Town, NE 68010, 531.355.1185, or www.boystown.org.

Visitation will be Friday (April 23) from 9-11 a.m. at Overman-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 15219 S. Joliet Rd., Plainfield, IL 60540. Funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment is private. Future interment at Plainfield Township Cemetery.

For more information, please call 815.436.9221 or visit www.overman-jones.com.