Obituary of Frank "Chip" Smith

     Francis Phillip Smith (60) of Middletown, NY, and Palmetto, FL entered through the gates of heaven to spend a peaceful eternity with God, family, and friends on January 25, 2024.  Frank to most and Chip to his family and early childhood friends, was born March 23, 1963, in Englewood Hospital, Englewood, NJ, and was raised in Bogota, NJ where he began many long-lasting friendships.  He also resided in Middletown, NY for 23 years and recently moved to Palmetto, FL.  He was the seventh and last child born to Patricia Curran Smith and James Luke Smith of Bogota, NJ.

Frank, a friend to all, and an opportunist in every endeavor, sought laughter, love, and happiness within every life experience he set forth.  He enjoyed discovering laughter in any situation; and always found the opportunity to tell a joke or share a story.   He was an intelligent, witty character, articulate with his words, precise and calculated with his demeanor, caring and sensitive to everyone’s needs. Frank’s genuine kindness touched the souls of everyone he encountered and always left a personal memorable impression.  Simply, he was a kind and generous old soul who loved life and being present for others.

Frank enjoyed an eclectic lifestyle full of art, music, theatre, and family.  He embraced every opportunity to challenge himself personally, spiritually, and intellectually. He enjoyed leisure activities including antiquing, gardening, bird watching, cooking, playing games, watching classic movies, entertaining, and the change of seasons (especially Autumn).

Professionally, Frank was a graduate of Montclair University and devoted his career to helping people within the hotel and retail sales/ management environments; where he continued to influence individuals and developed many lifelong relationships. One of Frank’s proudest accomplishments was his career spent at Brooks Brothers and being selected to participate in a tour of St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.  Frank enjoyed his retirement years spending time with his husband Russell, his sisters, friends, family, and his dogs. 

Frank was also a committed life partner, best friend, and soul mate to his loving husband, Russell W. Chalmers, who lasted 27 years together living on earth and will remain in his heart forever more. They developed a loving family with their doggy girls:  Phoebe, Mazie Dee, and Lorna Rose, and Frank was known always as “Poppi” to his babies.  

Frank was preceded by his mother and father; Patricia Curran Smith and James Luke Smith, Sister; Deborah DiSanto of Hewitt, NJ, and Brother; James Gerard Smith and his partner Steven Ferrini of Key West, FL.  He is survived by his lifelong partner and husband, Russell W. Chalmers, Sisters: Patricia Costanzo of West Milford NJ, Eileen Kossler and husband Scott of Hewitt NJ, Annie Cerci of Toms River NJ, Mary Elizabeth (MaryBeth) Smith Napolitano, and Brother in law Jerry Disanto of Hewitt NJ, Mother, and Father in law Sharon and Wayne Chalmers of Palmetto FL., Sister in law Cynthia Bobkoskie of Palmetto FL, and Uncle to Rania Ghrayeb, Tarkan Cerci, Alex Napolitano, Chelsea Napolitano, and many great-nieces/nephews.

Frank will be forever missed and loved.  He shall remain in the hearts of many forevermore. He is truly loved by all and will never be forgotten.  Instead of flowers, please consider donating in Frank’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or a charity of your choice. 

Service arrangements will be communicated through Griffith Cline Funeral Home. Please call 941.748.1011 to obtain service information. 

GOD BLESS FRANK