Franklin Delano Smith, Sr.

Franklin Delano Smith, Sr., 87, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, December 2, 2023, at Memorial Health University.

Mr. Frank was born in Statesboro, Georgia on November 4, 1936, and lived in Effingham County for many years. His love for Jehovah God and Jesus Christ moved him to be baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1971 and he loved talking to people about the Bible. He enjoyed working with horses and will forever be remembered for his witty humor. Frank loved to spend time with his family and friends, and will be deeply missed by each and every one of them.

He is preceded in death by two sons, Franklin D. Smith, Jr. and Thomas Matt Smith; parents, James and Trudy Smith; and a number of brothers and sisters.

Survivors include his loving wife of 57 years, Gail Smith; sons, Norman Blake Smith (Mary Ann) of Gray, Georgia, Ben Smith of Springfield and Gaylon Smith of Springfield; sister, Mary Gibbs of Huntsville, Alabama; grandchildren, Montana Dyer, Audrey Smith, Josie Reddish, McKenzie Smith, Hunter Smith, Taylor Smith, Vivian Smith, Chris Smith, and Clayton Smith; 4 great grandchildren; and many other loving family members and friends.

Visitation will be held at Carlson & Riggs Funeral Home on Thursday, December 7, 2023, from 5-7pm with a funeral services to follow at 7pm in the chapel of the funeral home.