Frances Diane “Mawmaw” Smith, 75, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on June 26, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering love, strength, and devotion to her family.

Born on August 19, 1950, in Douglas, Georgia, Frances later made Tampa, Florida, her home, where she built a beautiful life centered around the people she loved most.

For 58 wonderful years, she shared a devoted marriage with the love of her life, Robert Smith. Together they created a family rooted in love, resilience, laughter, and countless cherished memories.

Mawmaw was the backbone of her family—a woman whose strength, independence, and selfless love shaped generations. She never hesitated to put others before herself and found her greatest joy in caring for those she loved. Whether she was gathering around the table serving one of her home cooked meals, spending a day fishing, listening to country music, or simply sharing laughter with family, she made everyone around her feel loved and welcomed.

Above all else, her greatest joy was her family. She is lovingly survived by her devoted husband, Robert Smith; her daughters, Melissa (Tony) McDaniel and Michelle Bartles; her sisters, Kathy Perry and Vickie (Bobby) Gregory; her brothers, Billy Draffin and Vince (Trish) Edwards; her grandchildren, Kendra (Chad) Williams, Briaunna Smith, Shaylee (Ryan) Tessaro, and Travis (KaraLyn) Bartles; and many treasured great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Frances Edwards, and her father, Dudley Draffin.

Those who knew Frances will remember her as a woman of incredible strength, fierce independence, endless generosity, and unconditional love. She taught her family what it meant to work hard, stand tall, love deeply, and always be there for one another. Her presence was a gift, and her memory will continue to guide and inspire those fortunate enough to have known her.

Funeral services will be held at Hodges Family Funeral Home in Zephyrhills, Florida. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate a life so beautifully lived and a woman who will never be forgotten.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in the countless memories she gave us and the love she leaves behind.

Forever in our hearts.