Birth date: Mar 10, 1948 Death date: May 22, 2026
Frederick W. Smith, 78, passed away peacefully in his loving wife’s arms on May 22, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with illness. He was born on March 10, 1948, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Michael and Mary Smith (née Read Obituary
I will always remember Fred as a kind and caring man. He was a friend to anyone he met-no one was ever a stranger. I will remember his passion for life and being happy all the time-He had a great smile! Fred always asked about what was going on with me or my brother. I loved visiting Fred and Renee’s home-we would get spoiled there and the yard was always so beautiful!
Renee and I met in the 6th grade. We do not see each other often enough and she remains a very dear close to my heart friend and we are always happy to see each other. I do remember the timeframe in which Renee met Frederick, and she was smitten with him. She spoke of him on every occasion and called him "My Freddy." They were always a so happy to be in love couple every time I was fortunate enough to spend time with them. Renee, I truly understand and do share what you are going through at this time. I will always be here for you and know that you can reach out to me at any time for anything. Much love to you.
Gwendolyn Cody Sanders
Fred was one of the kindest and bravest people I ever met. He was always cheerful and upbeat during his final illness. His love for Rene was overwhelming and an inspiration.
What can I say? Uncle Fred is very dear to me & my family. My parents could not have picked a better Godfather. He & Aunt Renee have been at the center of my life since I can remember. From my first memories as a flower girl in their beautiful rainbow wedding to every milestone in my life, they have been there for us. We’ve had so much fun together—be it “summer camp” with my sibs, biking, family cookouts, trips to the park, pool and the zoo, or crazy go-carting; they visited Chris & I on our adventures to Georgia, and helped welcome our new baby Sophia in Florida. They even surprised me with a visit to Hawaii when I was an intern. Uncle Fred is someone I could always count on & taught me many valuable lessons along the way. He taught me to drive a stick shift (well before I was 16) 😉 I will hold his lighthearted nature, warmth & good humor towards me and my family forever close in my heart. Uncle Fred & Aunt Renee are such an exceptional duo and an example of true love and devotion for all of us. We will miss Uncle Freddy so much! ❤️
Uncle Freddy
So many memories growing up with my brother and sisters at “summer camp”. We enjoyed the simple life; cooking out, swimming, riding bikes everywhere. Somehow, even choirs were fun when we all chipped in! You would always take an interest in our friends and activities and always made time for us and mentored us. As we grew older, you treated our families with the same care and love. Aunt Renee, Your love for each other is truly special and sets an example for everyone. We will miss you so much. God bless and prayers to you both.
We are forever family. Many years and memories cannot be taken away. Fred was the kindest and most loving person. Renee and Fred make up what all is good in the world. He will be missed but never forgotten. Love Lynn & Ken
The best memory l have of Fred is how much love he had for Renee and how much Renee loved him. It rare to fine that kind of love between two people. I meet Fred through working with Renee and he was always so kind and talkative when we would go out. Heaven received a shining star. ❤️❤️
I will always remember the warmth Uncle Freddy brought into every room. Some of my favorite childhood memories include Christmas visits to Ottawa and Thanksgiving dinners in Cleveland. He went out of his way to make sure I had enough cookies and felt a part of the adult table conversation. I especially remember dancing with him at Ian’s wedding. He was so good at creating the kind of simple happy moments people carry with them for years. His kindness has left an impression on me and I know he will be missed. Sending hugs to you, Aunt Renee. -Michaela Nordhaus
