Franklyn Henry Smith

Franklyn Henry Smith passed away suddenly on July 5, 2026, in Lakeside Village, Texas, leaving behind a deep legacy of faith, love, and a zest for life that touched all who knew him. Born December 28, 1948, in Harlingen, Texas, Franklyn’s journey was woven with care, devotion, and joyful involvement—a life lived in vibrant color and unwavering faith.

Franklyn’s path led him early into service, and at the age of 24 he began his studies for ordained ministry. Graduating from Johnson University in Knoxville, Tennessee in 1973, and later from Abilene Christian University, in Abilene, Texas, in 1975, Franklyn’s education was the foundation for his more than forty years in ministry with the Disciples of Christ. He retired in 2013, having served his Lord with dedication, humility, and a passion for sharing Christ’s love. Reflecting on his calling, Franklyn believed, “To work for the LORD shall be my joy forever. The world from sin we’ll strive to win for Christ and His Church!” These words echo the spirit in which he lived each day.

Franklyn’s faith was complemented by his sense of belonging. He found camaraderie and purpose as a member of the Masonic Lodge AF&AM, the Order of Eastern Star, and the Lion Club. Friendships formed in these communities—as well as those lasting from boyhood—were cherished, and he often remarked, “I get by with a little help from my friends.” He felt immense gratitude for the companionship and support of Lloyd Goldsmith, Don Kinder, Judy Sanders Roes, David Gramlich, and so many others who enriched his life.

Family remained Franklyn’s truest heart. He is survived by his beloved daughter, Tiffany Lee, whom he regarded as the “presence of God” in his life; his treasured son, Christopher Smith, “my son, my soul”; and his adored grandson, Tobias Smith, “first among many.” Many special memories were made alongside Elaine Smith, with whom he shared the journey of parenthood and a lasting friendship even beyond marriage. Franklyn described Elaine as a “good mother of our two children and my BFF,” acknowledging a bond that endured and grew in its own unique way and also Joshua Lee, wonderful son in law, amazing man, and good father to my grandchild.

Franklyn’s joy for living spilled over into countless interests. He was a passionate collector of 19th-century patent medicine bottles and Victorian antiques. Time spent fishing, swimming, hiking, and camping—especially amid the beauty of the Texas Hill Country, the Spanish Peaks, and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of Colorado—brought him endless delight. He recalled his fondest memories beside the gurgling Pedernales River, on the pastoral campus of Johnson University, and in the company of parents, kin, Elaine, Tiffany, Chris, friends, and grandchild Toby.

Those who knew Franklyn will remember his gentle wisdom and infectious joy. His favorite words—“L’Chaim” (To life) and “La vida loca”—summed up his passion for savoring life’s adventures and its smallest blessings. Whether savoring his favorite meal of Spanish wild rice, admiring roses of any color and hue, listening to “Green Leaves of Summer,” or recalling scenes from “The Alamo” starring John Wayne, Franklyn approached all of life—work, play, faith, family, and friendship—with reverence and celebration. He cherished the KJV Holy Bible (red letter edition) as his guide, found hope in every spring and summer, and delighted in the color blue.

Franklyn’s message to all he loved echoed a simple but profound teaching: “Little children, LOVE one another.” He believed deeply in the complete love of Jesus and reminded those around him, “Though there are humans like Moses, Joshua, Elijah, and the Prophets, and Buddha, Zoroaster, and King Solomon, there is only one God and one Mediator, the Man Christ Jesus (1 Tim. 2:5).” What life meant to him was “loving and always looking for opportunities, involvement with other humans, finding GOD in everything, and experiencing it all with joy.”

In addition to his children and grandson, Franklyn leaves behind his dear friend David Gramlich and family member Elaine Smith. As he would say, he was “Mama and Daddy’s kid,” a child of God even unto old age, and “saved by Grace in Jesus.”

There will be a service to honor Franklyn's life, where stories will be shared, love remembered, and his legacy celebrated. He leaves the gift of his example to those who remain: to love, to serve, to seek joy in every sunrise, and to cherish one another always.

Franklyn Henry Smith’s memory will be a blessing to all who were touched by his kindness, faith, humor, and dedication—a life beautifully and fully lived.

Arrangements were entrusted to Lawson Funeral Home, Meridian, Texas 254-435-2792.