James Franklin Smith Obituary

Ann Roberts '63 said:

Born James Franklin Smith in Washington D.C. on June 7, 1945
Predeceased in death by his mother Lou Alice Dunn Smith, father James Dennis Smith of Herndon VA, Uncle Olan Smith, Aunt Martha Dunn, and former partner Ms. Huel Meadows.

Survived by: Daughters Kristen Pappano and Patricia Golden, four grandchildren Madison Pappano, Mitchell Pappano, Megan Golden, and Jacob Golden, sister Joyce Smith, brothers Paul Smith and Ray Smith, two nieces and three nephews, and former wife, Mary Ellen Sherburne; as well as an extended and very close family, and many priceless friends.

Growing up in Herndon, VA, he attended Herndon High School. Shortly after high school Frank was drafted into the US Army in 1966 where he served as a medic in the Army 1st Cavalry Division. As a medic, he compassionately cared for his fellow soldiers, and proudly served a full tour for our country in Vietnam.

Frank took his family skill and passion for carpentry very seriously and was soon promoted as the youngest superintendent for a major construction company in the early 1970s. He owned his own business as well as continued a successful career as a builder and carpenter working for numerous developers throughout Northern Virginia and Maryland. Although retired, he never stopped mastering and using his skills to help others.

He was a dedicated "Friend of Bill's" for over 40 years and encouraged others to “keep coming back”. He remained true to himself as he practiced Unity, Service, and Recovery. Forming and never letting go of priceless, loving, and enduring friendships along the way.
In addition to spending time with his family, farming and fishing were two of his greatest joys. Nothing in the world could create and hold more cherished memories in his heart than fishing with his brothers and best friends.

His keen mind, witty sense of humor, strong compassion for animals, fatherly lessons and encouragement, and moreover- his love and friendship will forever be missed. We were all blessed when he was born June 7, 1945, and as of September 2, 2022 we will all keep his heart in ours forever.
The family will receive friends Wednesday September 7, 2022 at Moser Funeral Home, 233 Broadview Ave., Warrenton, from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. when the funeral service will begin. Burial will take place at a later date.

In Lieu of flowers please make a donation to your favorite charity in Frank’s name or bring purple Iris bulbs that his daughters can plant in his memory