Appeal to help family after death of dad
Bus driver Paul Smith died at the age of 38
THE devastated friends of bus driver Paul Smith are rallying round to support his family after his sudden death at the age of 38.
The popular driver for Pulhams leaves behind partner Steph Dutson and eight children, including baby twins.
Mr Smith, who lived in Upper Rissington, has been described as a wonderful friend with a great sense of humour that brought smiles to many.
He died on September 23 after initially being diagnosed with cellulitis, which later caused sepsis.
He is survived by Steph and his eight children, Holly, 10, Lucas, eight, Charlie, seven, Alfie, six, Oliver, three, Jacob, one, and 14-week-old twins Oscar and Leo.
Now the family and friends of Mr Smith want to raise money to support his partner and children.
Olivia Thomas, a close friend, said: “We can’t even begin to understand how difficult this time for his partner and children must be, so a group of us thought that if we raised the money it would help relieve pressure and stress from these individuals.”
The group that wish to help the family say they know that money can not compensate for the loss of Mr Smith, but they want to be able to take strain off his partner Steph.
The Go Fund Me page reads: “Paul brought many smiles to our faces with his humour, and therefore several of his close friends would like to pay tribute to Paul alongside helping the family in this time of need.
“Money cannot ever compensate for the loss and sadness, but it can ease worries and relieve the pressure on Steph and the family.
“Please share this with everybody you know, who knew Paul and who knows the family, the power of networking is exponential. Any contributions big or small will be gratefully received.
“Sleep tight, Paul, you will be greatly missed.”
Mr Smith was born in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire originally, but set up home with his family in Gloucestershire.
To donate to the appeal, visit gofundme.com/f/remembering-paulsmith