Frankie Smith

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Frankie Smith who left us on May 15, 2026.

Frankie was much more than a beloved pet; he was a cherished member of the family whose gentle

spirit and unique personality touched the lives of all who knew him.

Frankie was adopted from a rescue near Truman Dam, Missouri in 2013 when he was around 9 months

old. He was named Frankie by the rescue, but his human brother Christopher did not warm to this

name until Mom thought that Frankie could be short for “Frankenstein”. Christopher was all about that!

Frankie it is. This small story reflects how Frankie’s presence grew from a mere name to a vital part of

the family’s story.

Frankie was perhaps the most chill of all dogs. Known for his proficiency in napping, Frankie had an

uncanny talent for finding peace and contentment wherever he was. He was not particularly finicky

when it came to food, which made caring for him a joyful and uncomplicated experience. Unlike many,

he showed little interest in toys, preferring instead the calm comfort of being held and rocked like a

baby.  A true lap dog.  His easygoing nature made him a soothing presence in the household or traveling.

He was a world traveler, having experienced the sights, sounds and smells from the majority of the

States to across the Atlantic to cities like Paris, Rome and Berlin. These adventures only deepened our

admiration for his remarkable ability to embrace new surroundings with quiet grace. Whether traveling

by plane, train, automobile, or boat, Frankie’s enthusiasm for the journey was infectious; he loved them

all.

Both of Frankie’s human brothers loved him dearly. Matthew, the oldest brother cared for him, along

with his wife Megan, while Mom and Dad had to transition to a new home for about six months. Infact,

Matthew was only willing to take on one dog and of course it had to be Frankie. Frankie always enjoyed

when his brothers came to visit.

Frankie loved his canine companions to include his original mentor, Gizmo, who was there when Frankie

was adopted in Missouri. Gizmo loved Frankie and taught him dog manners until Gizmo’s untimely

passing. We are sure Gizmo was waiting for Frankie when he crossed the rainbow bridge to show him

the ropes once again. After Gizmo’s passing, Frankie became the mentor of two mixed Yorkies, forming

special bonds within his own kind that were heartwarming to witness. His canine siblings, Hollie and

Bailey, shared many moments that spoke to the closeness he felt with them. Not surprisingly, his four

kitty siblings even adored him!

He was a staple in the lives of his dog parents, Brian and Eileen, and their entire family, where his

absence will be felt profoundly. Frankie’s calm demeanor, adventurous spirit, and loving nature made

him a faithful companion and a treasured soul who will be sorely missed but fondly remembered. May

we all find inspiration in Frankie’s peaceful way of embracing life and the love he so freely gave. Rest

well, dear Frankie—you are forever in our hearts.