Franklin D Smith

Franklin Delano Smith Jr, aka knarf (love your brother, Dave) passed away on January 12, 2021 at the age of 48 after a short illness (not covid).  Frank had a huge heart that filled a room when he walked in.  He was the first to say “hi, welcome” and always remembered your name.  He could be intimidating but his baby blues told the truth, he was a softy.  He liked everyone but if he didn’t like you, you would never know.  He was everyone’s friend.  Frank was on a spiritual journey and was seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.  He was always ready and eager to do service work.  He was helpful and kind. He stood tall and was polite, a real gentleman right up to the end.  His nurses even said he was the “most polite altered state” patient they had ever had.  He shared a love for animal rescuing with his wife and could often be found playing with the old timers at the shelter or taking the birthday pup ice cream.  He also often fostered dogs, puppies and even feral kittens.  Nothing could come between him and his love for his family.  The two people he was most proud of was his daughter’s, Lily and Josilian Smith.  They were the lights of his heart.  He will be watching them from above every day for the rest of their lives (so watch what you do girls, he sees you).  His mom was and still is his ROCK.  He loved you, Bonnie, more then he could express.  Frank met the love of his life, Dominique Cotherman later in life.  Through all kinds of obstacles their love prevailed.  Frank always ended the day with “I loved you before I met you, sweetness”.  They were married on January 9, 2021 in a private ceremony in the hospital performed by the hospital Chaplin.  Dominique spent Franks last days laying in his arms for hours talking to him and listening to songs with him that had meaning to them.  He is always with Dominique.  He is survived by his wife, Dominique Cotherman, his daughters, Lily and Josilian Smith, his mother Bonnie May Smith, his brother and sister-in-law Dave and Kari Smith, sisters Janet Heckathorn and Bridget Smith, stepson’s Shane and Jacob Cotherman and his cousin Justin Smith. He was preceded in death by his father Franklin Delano Smith Sr., stepdad John Amyx and sister Bonnie Marie Smith.  His Best Friend his dog, Sophie is taking comfort with his mom, brother and sister-in-law with visits from his wife.  Frank has left a hole in so many hearts that they are too many to mention.  I would like to thank everyone who donated to the Go Fund Me and to all the wonderful friends and family for your continued support.  We could not do it without you.  Brobrah…keep the laughs coming she needs you.   We will have a celebration of life in the summer when we can honor Franks life the way it should be….with happiness, joy and love.  Babe, Enjoy the Big Meeting in the Sky.  We miss you, bunches.

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