In loving memory of Frankie Archie Gavin Smith, who sadly passed away on 8th June 2023.
Frankie was a Bermondsey boy through and through. Growing up in Devon Mansions, Tooley Street, he attended Tower Bridge Primary School, where he was a happy and popular pupil with a mischievous streak. He had a great sense of humour — often at others’ expense! He then went to Compass School and, later, Ark Globe and Ian Mikardo.
Frankie loved Spider Man and Marvel, PlayStation gaming, playing on his phone and getting up to no good with his mates! He loved animals, especially his cat, Tilly, who also adored him. He retained a wicked sense of humour until the end. He was such a gentle and polite boy who never so much as hurt a fly. He enjoyed winding up his brother, sister and dad — and teaching his brother naughty words! He especially loved his mum and was always keen to make sure she was happy, even leaving her out of rotten jokes! He shared a special bond with his younger siblings, Charlotte and Henry (Harry).
Frankie was living life to the full and enjoying himself until March 2023, when he underwent surgery to remove further tumour growth. Even then, and with the battle scars of yet more surgery and the side effects of awful medication, he was looking forward to enjoying more of adulthood and setting his own rules. Very sadly it wasn’t to be.
Frankie sadly died from brain cancer caused by a very rare type of brain tumour – an anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma – aged just 19. His passing leaves a massive void in our hearts and lives that will never be filled. He had the courage of a lion, enduring all the treatments, surgeries and procedures with a smile and wry humour.
Frankie received such wonderful care in his final weeks from the palliative care team at Guy’s Hospital, who made it possible for him to die peacefully at home. The level of care and support he received - and us - was absolutely first class.
Frankie’s funeral will be held on Monday 3 July 2023 at 3.15 pm at Honor Oak Crematorium. Everyone is welcome to attend to celebrate Frankie’s life. Please come as you are - tracksuits, trainers, colourful clothing is welcomed. Donations in lieu of flowers to the Guy’s and St Thomas’ Charity, to be earmarked for sole use by the community palliative care team at Guy’s Hospital, in recognition of their wonderful care of Frankie in his final days and weeks.
Thinking of you boy always and forever can’t believe your birthday is a couple days away and your not here to celebrate it with us but be rest assured frankie boy we love and miss you so so much make sure your up there celebrating your birthday like you would if you was here . Love you my darling love aunty Don dons
Fun times frankie boy with your cousin up to mischief as always
You are always with me in my thoughts and memories. Not a minute goes past without you being there. Love you forever, your Dad
I love you frankie
Rest in peace Frankie, wished I got to spend more time with you and will always be thinking of you love cousin Milli, Danielle and family xxx
Up to mischief with his brother (who is out of view!)
After a win at go-karting!
Our thoughts, prayers and love are with you all, life is cruel and so unfair. We know Frankie will be surrounded by so much love in heaven. Fly high Frankie 💙
U will be truly and dearly missed Frank you are in my thoughts words can't describe how cruel this world is rest in peace darling xxx
To Dearest Frankie you have gone way too soon you had your whole life ahead of you, life can be so wicked and it is true the good do die young but you will be in our memories for ever, all our memories of you will stay with us forever including the ones when you would wind everyone up in the house and also trying to teach Diane maths.
God bless little man forever in our hearts and memories.
a small token of our appreciation
You’re peacefully now sleeping in a world of purest light where angels sing their sweet refrain and where everything shines bright.
Besides the tranquil waters you walk along each day where the blossoms are so beautiful with the colours they display.
You’re so very dearly thought of and every precious memory has left a lovely rainbow that will last eternally
Rest in perfect peace. Uncle luke x
Thank you to all that cared for Frankie when he needed it most, we are very grateful for this and can never repay you enough, Thank you.
Fly high my angel, there will always be a special place for you in my heart. Love you forever my little man ❤️
To are beautiful sweetheart Frankei!
Lord my God and my father! I thank you for all the days we had with Frankei! As hard as it is to believe we won't see him again. I know the Lord is keeping you and taking care of you Frankei! We'll miss you! We will miss your games, your conversations, your joy, your education in which your father and mother taught you so well! We will miss the love you gave your brother and sister and all the joy you brought to the whole family! God bless you!
Fun times frankie boy with your cousin up to mischief as always
Up to mischief with his brother (who is out of view!)
After a win at go-karting!
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