Franklin Carl Smith

Frank Smith, 71, passed away November 23, 2024, after a year long battle with cancer. He was born August 23, 1953, in Live Oak, FL. At age 10, Frank came to Jacksonville to live with his grandmother, Blanche Smith. In 1965, his aunt and uncle, Celia and Steve Smith, graciously welcomed him and his brother Danny into their family home. Frank came to consider his aunt and uncle as his parents and his cousins Greg Smith (Colleen) and Lynn Barnes (Glynn) as his brother and sister. Alex and Raleigh Barnes became his nephews. Frank also felt lucky to have the support of his mother-in-law, Elaine Palko, whom he loved and helped throughout her life. Frank also leaves behind sisters-in-law Laura Schendel (Jim) and Carolyn Stone (Jeff), 5 nieces, 2 more nephews and 6 great nieces and nephews. 

After graduating from Orange Park High School in 1971, Frank moved to Atlantic Beach. While living steps from the beach so he could surf, Frank attended the University of North Florida, earning a BA in Political Science. He and his wife of almost 41 years, Beth (nee Palko) met in 1975 as next door neighbors and built their lives together near the ocean.

Frank loved to travel and had many hobbies. He loved learning in general, developing new talents and skills. His interest in astronomy led him to volunteer at the Alexander Brest Planetarium, then into a career where he eventually became the Planetarium Director. Frank helped produce the public educational shows and the infamous Cosmic Concerts. He also enjoyed presenting astronomy lectures and leading school programs. Continuing to adapt his skills, Frank became the Director of Multi-Media at Methodist Hospital, which later merged with Shands, focusing on educational media.

Frank had a real love for nature and animals. His dogs were his best buds, and he loved taking them on walks around the beach, meeting new friends along the way. Frank had a big heart and liked to make people smile. He and Beth appreciated the compassionate care from the doctors and nurses at Cancer Specialists of North Florida in Neptune Beach. His legacy of love endures through cornea and tissue donations. There will be a gathering on the beach on January 18, 2025, at noon, followed by a Celebration of Life from 12:30 - 3:00 p.m., at The Refinery in Jacksonville Beach.