Francis Martin Smith

Francis M. “Frank” Smith, 62 of Sanford, Maine, formerly of Newton, Massachusetts, passed away at his home on Saturday, October 14, 2023. He departed surrounded by the warmth of his family, following a lengthy illness. Born in Newton, Massachusetts, on October 31, 1960, Frank grew up immersed in the close-knit bonds of family as one of the six children of John and Irene Smith. This upbringing fostered a profound sense of family, which only deepened when he married the love of his life, Deborah “Debbie” Adam, in 1982. Together, they nurtured their love story for 41 memorable years and raised five wonderful children, affectionately known to Frank as "manoganites". A dedicated provider, Frank was employed for many years as a heavy equipment operator. He was never one to shy away from hard work, always prioritizing his family's needs over his own. Blessed with gifted hands, Frank became the family's go-to mechanic and handyman. Whether fixing a faucet or a flat tire, his prowess was unmatched. No task was too big or small for him, and he generously extended this expertise to those in need. For those who had the pleasure of attending family gatherings, Frank's presence by the grill was a hallmark of these events. He was the “family grill master”, dazzling many with his amazing monster burgers, savory meatloaf, and the irresistible strawberry bundt cakes. His love of ice cream was legendary, often delighting in it several times in a day. An avid movie buff, Frank would often recite his favorite quotes from iconic films. Yet, above all, it was his role as a father, husband and grandfather that defined him. The joy he derived from moments with his grandchildren, especially the playful evenings with Ryan battling imaginary zombies, was palpable. Though he now joins his parents, John and Irene, Frank's spirit lives on in the hearts of many: his devoted wife, Deborah “Debbie” Smith of Sanford; five children, Frankie Smith of Sanford, Kelly Davis and her husband Sean of Newton, Massachusetts, Russell Smith of Sanford, Melissa Lovejoy and her husband Ryan of Sanford and Michelle Smith and her husband Paul Perreault of Shapleigh; four grandchildren, Ryan Lovejoy, Olivia Lovejoy, Ava Smith and Rylee Perreault; five siblings, Christine Nunez and her husband Mario of Standish, Mary Hawk and her husband Vinny of Old Orchard Beach, Jimmy Smith of Newton, Massachusetts, Elizabeth Smith and her fiancée Todd Flamand of Gilbertville, Massachusetts and Tommy Smith and his wife Margie of Maynard, Massachusetts and many nieces and nephews. To honor Frank's memory, a visitation is scheduled from 2:00 to 4:00 PM on Wednesday, October 18th at the Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home, 580 Main Street, Springvale. This will be followed by a celebration of life gathering at American Legion located at 656 Main Street in Springvale. The arrangements are under the compassionate care of Black Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, Sanford-Springvale. In Frank's memory, may we cherish the moments, celebrate the joys, and always lend a helping hand.