Robert "Bob" Paulovich Obituary

Robert “Bob” M. Paulovich, born January 23, 1951, in East Liverpool, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025. A devoted husband, father, and educator, Bob will be remembered for his intelligence, resilience, and compassion.

Bob earned a Bachelor of Science in Music from Bethel University in 1974, followed by a Master of Science in Education from Arkansas State University in 1979. He dedicated 31 years to a career in education.

His professional journey culminated in his retirement in 2008 after serving as a Public School Administrative Advisor for the Arkansas Department of Education for 21 years, where he made a lasting impact on students, teachers, and schools across the state. Bob also shared his passion for sports as a football coach early on during his education career.

In 2002, Bob survived a plane crash while training to be a pilot. It was a true testament to his courage and determination, the same qualities that later carried him through his battle with lymphoma.

Known for his energy, humor, and hard work, Bob loved the outdoors, fly fishing, cooking crawfish, gardening, and tending to his roses. As a devoted sports enthusiast, he was a lifelong fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arkansas Razorbacks.

He leaves behind a loving family, including his devoted wife, Linda Williams Paulovich; son, Jon Paulovich and his wife Maleah; brother-in-law, Rand Williams; aunt, Glenna Adkins; as well as many close family members and friends who cherished his presence in their lives. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, William and Nawasa Paulovich, as well as his brother, Donald Paulovich.

His memory will be honored during visitation on Friday, July 18, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM, both held at Smith Benton Funeral Home, 322 N Market Street, Benton, AR 72015. He will then be laid to rest at 2:00 PM at Pinecrest Funeral Home & Memorial Park in Alexander, AR.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob’s name to the DAV: Disabled American Veterans.

Pallbearer honors entrusted to: Wes Whitley, Matt Standfill, Brian Hicks, Dallis Clark, Chris Summerville, and Jon Paulovich.

Bob’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know and love him. He will be remembered as a man who gave generously of himself…to his family, his community, and the countless lives he touched through his life’s work.