Frank Stewart Smith

Mr. Frank Stewart Smith, Sr., a devoted servant of God, country, family, and community, peacefully transitioned from this life on January 22, 2026. Born on December 24, 1942, in Bessemer, Alabama, he was the beloved son of the late Mattie Towns and Frank Smith.

At an early age, Frank accepted Christ as his personal Savior and remained steadfast in his faith throughout his life. He was a lifetime and faithful member of First Baptist Church of Old Jonesboro, where his presence, commitment, and Christian walk were evident until his passing.

Frank was a proud graduate of Brighton High School, Class of 1961, where he laid the foundation for a life marked by discipline, leadership, and perseverance. Those same qualities followed him into his distinguished military career.

Answering the call to serve his country, Frank enlisted in the United States Army, where he honorably served for 22 years. Through dedication, courage, and unwavering patriotism, he rose to the rank of Sergeant First Class (SFC), earning the respect of his peers and the gratitude of a nation. His military service was not just a career- it was a calling he carried with pride.

Following his military retirement, Frank continued his life of service through civilian employment. He worked faithfully at the VA Hospital for many years, where he remained committed to caring for and supporting fellow veterans-never wavering in his dedication to those who had also served their country.

During his life's journey, Frank met the love of his life, Mrs. Menthola Jenkins Smith, and together they built a strong and loving union. From this union, four children were born, whom he cherished deeply and loved unconditionally.

A man of deep love and integrity, Frankcherished his family and took great pride in his community. He was known for his strength, wisdom, generosity, and steadfast spirit-qualities that will forever live on through those he loved and those who loved him.

Frank was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Menthola Jenkins Smith; and his siblings, Freddie Odessa Parker, Francis Davis, and Thomas James Towns.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories four loving children: Frank Smith, Jr., Marcellia Smith, Menthola "Minnie" Smith, and Mattie Smith(Cedric) Garrett; five grandchildren, Chante' Smith, Michael Smith, Arie' Smith, Jordyn A. Horn, and Cedric Garrett, Jr.; four great- grandchildren, Erion McKenzie, Kae'lyn Smith, Zaiden Smith, and Zarr Smith; a special friend, Gwendolyn Britton; a bonus son, Joe Larry Lewis, Jr. "Bosie" and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, greatnephews, great-great-nieces, greatgreat-nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

Mr. Frank Stewart Smith, Sr. lived a life of honor, service, and love. Though he has answered the final roll call, his legacy will forever stand at attention in the hearts of all who knew him.