Frank George Smith Jr.
August 30, 1959 – March 9, 2024
Frank G. Smith Jr., 64, of Oak Run, Ocala, Florida, passed away on March 9th, 2024, at Ocala Regional Hospital. Frank, affectionately known as “Buddy” by his family. He was born on August 30th, 1959, in Buffalo, New York, to Frank and Dorothy Smith. He spent his formative years in Depew, NY, graduating from Maryvale High School and achieving the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America.
Following his graduation, Frank embarked on a dedicated career in law enforcement. He served his country honorably in the U.S. Army for six years as a Military Police Officer. Upon his honorable discharge, Frank continued his service as a Police Officer in West Carthage, N.Y., before joining the New York State Department of Corrections in 1987. He retired as a Correctional Sergeant after 25 years of dedicated service.
Frank had many passions in life, including spending quality time with his family, indulging in his love for reading, enjoying the thrill of the casino, and riding his beloved Harley Davidson motorcycle.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 40 years, Kelly R. Smith, his loving daughters Teasha McCarthy and Danielle VonKotz of Ocala, Florida, his sons Travis (Johanna) Youngs of Ramstein, Germany, and Frank Smith of Ocala, Florida. Frank also leaves behind five cherished grandchildren: Bailey, Keaghan, Alanna, Wyatt, and DaKoda. He is also survived by his mother, Dorothy, sisters Debbie (Rick) Limardi, Terry (John) Buczek, Sue Miller, brothers David (Jan) Smith, and Paul (Aida) Smith, along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Frank G. Smith Sr.
A funeral service in honor of Frank’s life will be held at Roberts of Ocala Funerals, 6241 SW State Rd 200, Ocala, FL 34476, on Thursday, March 14th, 2024, at 3 pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Mayo Clinic of Jacksonville, Florida.
Despite battling illness for an extended period, Frank maintained an exceptionally positive outlook, leaving an everlasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated staff of the ICU at Ocala Regional Hospital, as well as the compassionate staff at Davita Dialysis East and Ocala Infectious Disease.