Franklin C. Smith, Jr.

Franklin “Frank” C. Smith, Jr. was a man who lived his life with honor, pride, and an unwavering love for his family and country. He was born on March 5, 1949, in Morgantown, WV, to the late Franklin Smith, Sr., and his loving mother, the late Elsie Widner. He was called to eternal rest unexpectedly on January 13, 2025.

Frank grew up in Canyon, WV, and graduated from Butte Montana High School in 1967. After graduation, he spent the summer working in the local copper mines before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. He was called to serve his country during the Vietnam War, in the Tet Offensive, during 1968 and 1969. He was with the C.A.P. 236 and 3rd Marine Division 1-9, "The Walking Dead." He earned the rank of Corporal and became a highly decorated soldier. His commendations include the Vietnam Service Medal with 3 stars, the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Bronze Star, the Combat Action Ribbon, the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat "V," and a Purple Heart.

After he returned from Vietnam, Frank worked at Cowan’s Bakery before accepting a job at Beaumont Glass Factory. In 1972, he started his career as a coal miner at Gateway Mine. In 1978, he accepted the position of Longwall Foreman at Cumberland Mine before being promoted to Shift Foreman. He was also a licensed EMT and retired in 2009.

Frank's courage and patriotism were not only pivotal in his character but also spurred his involvement in veteran organizations. He was proud to serve as the Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 34 Greene County for ten years. He was a member of VFW Post 3491 in Carmichaels, PA, before transferring to VFW Post 4793 in Waynesburg, PA. He was also a member of American Legion Post 330 in Waynesburg, PA, as well as the Waynesburg Moose Lodge. Additionally, he was a past member of the USMC League of Morgantown.

Frank was married to the love of his life, Jeannei Martisko. Together, they raised four children and were blessed to share 54 years together.

When Frank wasn’t providing service to the veteran community, he enjoyed a variety of activities, reflecting his love for adventure and family. He loved fishing, spending time with his family, vacationing often, and participating in antique car shows. He was a fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the WVU Mountaineers. Frank enjoyed watching western movies, especially those starring John Wayne and Clint Eastwood.

Frank was preceded in death by Gertrude "Grandma Lynch" Lynch, his brothers, Michael "Butchie" James Smith and Tommy Smith; sisters, Joyce "Jobie" Furst, Jackie Smith, Dixie McCuskey, and Rosemarie Smith; along with his cherished great-grandchildren, Gabriel and Hope White.

Frank's legacy will continue through his wife, Jeannei Smith, and their four children: Franklin Smith III (Mary Ellen), James Michael "Mikey" Jetten (Mabel), Tina Smith, and Angela "Angie" Smith. His memory will be everlasting in the lives of his brother, Gary Smith (Smokey), and sisters, Toni Amstadt, Elaine Boyers, Rev. Dolly "Tiny" Sparks, and Donna Woody. The joys of his later years included his grandchildren—Zachary and Jacob Smith, Wyatt (Grace), Tristan, and Donald White IV—along with his great-grandchildren, Naya, Adeline, Genevieve, and Quentin Jetten, and Donna Mae White.

His affection will also be missed by his cherished nephews, Dub Smith, Shaun "Bubby" Smith, and Dwayne Cox; nieces, Kimberly Cox, Tia Fields, and Jeannie Richardson; and numerous other adored nieces and nephews. Additionally, his faithful fur companion, Lulu Belle, and four grandpups remain as a testament to his love for animals.

Family and friends will gather on Saturday, January 18, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Sunday, January 19, with visitation at 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Westover VFW Post 9916 Honor Guard, Greene County VFW Post 4793 Honor Guard, and the Earl Anderson Marine Corps League 342 of Morgantown.