Paula Smead

Paula Pearson Smead, also known to many friends as Demelza, died suddenly on June 19, 2024. She was preceded in death by her parents Agnes and Alfred Smead Jr.

Paula loved teaching. A graduate of the University of Akron and retired from the Wadsworth School System, she used her teaching skills to share her mastery of all things textile from modern to medieval techniques. She excelled in spinning, weaving, embroidery, knitting, crochet, bobbin lace, lucet cord making to name a few.

She was a founding member of the Weaver's Guild of Gwyntarian, a medieval textile guild associated with the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA). She was also a member of the Medina Spinning and Weaving Guild, Cuyahoga Weavers and Spinners Guilds and Stan Hywet Needlework Guild.

She was experienced in animal husbandry and welcomed a variety of animals into her life. She owned an Arabian horse which she showed and even learned to ride side-saddle. She also loved and cared for a multitude of rescued dogs and cats but was especially fond of poodles and Siamese cats. She was knowledgeable about raising sheep, shearing and processing their wool which she then spun and made into yarn for her other crafts.

But most of all, she valued her friends. She was a gracious, caring person who lived life to the fullest. She will be greatly missed.

Her friends have planned an informal gathering to celebrate her life. Bring your projects and all the memories of years past. No flowers, please. Donations may be made in her name to Summit County Humane Society, Akron Food Bank, or One-of-a-Kind Pets.

Please join us on Wednesday July 24 from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm at the Hummel Funeral Home, 3475 Copley Rd., Copley Ohio.