Francis L. Smith

Retired Lynn Fire Captain Francis L. Smith, 91, of Lynn died Tuesday in North Shore Medical Center Salem Hospital after a being stricken at home. He was the loving husband of the late Nelsie M. (White) Smith with whom he shared 52 years of marriage.

Francis was born in Haverhill, MA son of the late Earl and Rose (Carrier) Smith. He was a graduate of St. James High School in Haverhill but spent the majority of his adult life in Lynn.

Francis was appointed a Firefighter in January, 1948 and rose to the rank of Lieutenant and later to Captain. He retired in 1983 after serving the City of Lynn for 35 years. Captain Smith served on the North Shore Labor Council and was a member of the Lynn Firefighters Relief Assoc.

He was a WW II Army veteran and served in Central Europe and Rhineland under General Patton.

Every Sunday he enjoyed playing cards with his daughters and because of his sharp memory, ended up beating them most of the time. He was an avid reader, enjoyed watching Classic Movies and until recently walked 5+ miles a day. He was a longtime and devoted parishioner of St. Josephs Church.

He is survived by his 3 loving daughters: Joan M. Green and her husband Richard, Lorraine Smith-Willis and her husband Richard and Catherine M. Smith and her close friend Steve Hess all of Lynn; One sister Patricia Royea of Haverhill. Also survived by 5 grandchildren Daniel Pass, Julie Pass, Annie Rose Carter and her husband Shaun, Michelle Willis and Timothy Willis as well as one great grandson Nathaniel Pass. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. He was adored by his family and all who knew him.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to visiting hours at the CUFFE-McGINN FUNERAL HOME, 157 Maple St. Lynn on Friday, September 7 from 3-7 PM. Mr. Smith’s Funeral will be Saturday, September 8 gathering at the Funeral Home at 9:00 AM. His Funeral Mass will be in St. Josephs Church at 10 AM. Interment will be in Pine Grove Cemetery. Donations in his memory may be made to St. Josephs Church, St. Vincent DePaul Society, 40 Green St. Lynn, MA 01902.