Frank McKinley “”Bubba”” Smith peacefully transitioned to enteral rest at the age of 82, on Tuesday November 3, 2020 at the Washington Hospital Center in Washington DC. In his final hours, he shared time with all his children, and his loving wife Mae who was by his side, when he passed.
Born on August 15th, 1938, Frank was the fifth of seven children begat from the union of the late John Walter and Felix Cecelia Smith, of Ridge Maryland.
Frank was educated in the St. Mary’s County school system, he graduated in 1957 from George Washington Carver School. His school activities included chorus, reporting for the school newspaper “”The Chronicle””, and being a member of the basketball team.
Frank met and courted Mary Agnes Porter of Dameron Maryland. They entered the sacrament of marriage on January 7, 1961. From this blessed union came forth six children, Sonya Nadine; Frank McKinley Jr.; Vonda Kae; Marcus Dimitreus; Tiffani Lavelle; and Steffani Larae.
Frank was a lifetime member of St. Luke United Methodist Church in Scotland Maryland. He served various roles such as being a member of the: Board of Trustee; Methodist Men Gospel Group. And on occasion, he thoroughly enjoyed playing the role of Santa Claus at Christmas. On Sundays, he could be found in church dressed in his “”Sunday best””, complete with hat.
Frank believed in the teachings of the bible, he believed in the power of prayer and would spend time praying at home and at various churches. He enjoyed hearing the word of the Lord, having conversations with his church family, and listening to the church choir.
He joined the United States Army in 1961 and served four years. After his tour, Frank joined the Army Reserve for three years, where he received honors such as expertise with rifle, pistol marksmanship and a Medal of Good Conduct.
After his military service, Frank worked several positions until 1971 when he started at Indian Head Naval Surface Warfare Center, until retiring in 1996. During this time, Frank received various certificates, letters of appreciation and awards for: commendable efforts; contributions; bravery and work performance. Concurrently, he worked at Besche Oil Company for 40 years, because as a dedicated husband and father, he did what was necessary to take care of his family.
Frank would participate with charities outside of church and work, including Christmas in April and Habitat for Humanity. As a young man, he enjoyed dancing and playing cards. He enjoyed taking long leisurely drives and would comment about all the changes that were happening to the counties. In his leisure times, Frank liked to attend gospel programs and plays. He loved gardening, landscaping his yard, decorating his yard for Christmas, and taking boat rides. He enjoyed watching sports on television particularly the Baltimore Orioles, Colts, Ravens and the Philadelphia Eagles. One of his favorite television shows was “”Sanford and Son””.
He looked forward to spending time with his children, grandchildren, the most. He would attend their competitions, performances, awards ceremonies and graduations. Frank and Mary provided the start-up capital for Scrumptious Entrees Catering and Cakes, the family business that kept them close while growing up together. Whenever he thought that the business was not doing its best he would simply say “”You know, you all got something good going there, why would you change that?”” After considering his words, we would discuss it then, made adjustments.
He is survived by his caring wife Mary Agnes Smith, (Hollywood, MD). His loving children: Sonya Smith-McKenzie(Frank), Waldorf, MD; Frank Jr. (Margaret) California, MD; Vonda Douglas (Steve) Brandywine, MD; Marcus (Darlene) Brandywine, MD; Tiffani Bond (Louis) La Plata, MD. Twelve grandchildren: Valerie, Julius, Frank III, Chelsea, Marcus, Morgan, Dariusz, Egypt, Elijah, Joshua, William and Zachary. Five great grandchildren: Lorenzo, Malachi, Knari, Kayden, and Zanarah. Two sisters: Eva Statesman (Alfred) Valley Lee, MD; Mary Moore (Orlando) Lexington Park, MD. In-Laws: Esther Smith, Lexington Park, MD; Sara Little, Bowie, MD; Alice Porter (Greg), Temple Hill, MD; Carolyn Porter, Lexington Park, MD; William Porter (Kae) Callaway, MD; John Edward (Darlene) FLA; Joseph Porter(Konnye) MIS. And a host of nieces, nephews and relatives and friends.
Frank was preceded in death by his daughter Steffani Larae Smith. His parents John W. Smith Sr. and Felix Cecelia Smith. Sisters: Sarah B. Smith and Elmira Davis. Brothers: John Walter Smith Jr. and Leonard Calvin Smith. Grandsons: Noah and Noel Bond. Niece Gwendolyn Riley.
Servant of God, well done! Thy glorious warfare’s past. The battles fought, the race is won, and thou are crowned at last.
Visitation will begin at 9:00 am until time of service at 10:30 am on Saturday, November 14, 2020 at St. Peter Claver Church, 16922 Saint Peter Claver Rd, St. Inigoes, MD 20684. Interment to follow at St. Luke United Methodist Church cemetery, 12880 Point Lookout Road, Scotland, MD 20687. Flowers should be delivered directly to the church.
