Years ago, on the fields of the Kentucky School for the Deaf in Danville, Coach Paul Smiley stood tall, coaching students toward confidence, teamwork, and joy. Whether guiding football drills or cheering on his players during a soccer match, Paul believed every child deserved to feel seen and valued. It wasn’t just about the game—it was about teaching teamwork and giving his students a sense of purpose.
Today, just down the road from the school where he made such an impact, Paul is on the receiving end of that same kind of care. As a resident at The Lantern at Morning Pointe Alzheimer’s Center of Excellence in Danville, he’s embraced by a team that supports him with dignity, compassion, and community.
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Family and an Impactful Career
Born in Butler, Pennsylvania, in 1949, Paul’s journey began in athletics, earning a spot as a tight end on the University of Maryland football team. But one of his greatest life moments happened off the field—meeting his future wife, Patricia, on a blind date arranged by his fraternity. That dinner cruise sparked a lifelong love, and Patricia would go on to be named the fraternity’s sweetheart during Paul’s senior year.
Together, they raised three children and enjoyed the joy of eight grandchildren. Paul’s career took him from teaching PE in Washington, D.C., public schools to coaching at Gallaudet University, a university for the deaf, where he learned American Sign Language. A guest speaking opportunity brought him to Danville in 1979, and he never left. He became the athletic director at KSD, later moving into school administration before retiring in 2007.
“He was a walking encyclopedia of game knowledge,” said his son Owen.
However, Paul’s legacy lies in more than just knowing the facts. “I am proud of the academic achievements I have achieved,” he said. “But my greatest achievement I feel is the relationships that I had with students and families at my school.”
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Coming to Morning Pointe
When it was time to find care for their mother, Eric and his brother Owen chose Morning Pointe of Danville. After Patricia passed in 2023, the decision for Paul was easy.
“When it was time for Dad to move, there was no question about where we would want him to go,” Eric said. “Physically, he is safe, and any of his needs can be immediately met by the staff at Morning Pointe. He has regular interactions with residents and staff and is happier.”
You can probably guess one of the other highlights for Paul at Morning Pointe. “I enjoy getting to see children in our building and seeing them interact with myself and the other residents.” Through all these years, children still hold a tender place in Paul’s heart.
From the coach’s corner to a place of comfort and care, Paul Smiley’s legacy continues—rooted in compassion, lived through service, and honored in the community he helped shape.
