Frank L. Smith

Dr. Frank L. Smith, Jr. passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born in 1936 in Memphis, TN, he raised his family in Ridgewood, NJ, and retired in Napa, CA.

Frank was married to Gayle Smith, who predeceased him. He is survived by his children, Kevin (Christie), Joy (Richard), and Kim (Bill); his beloved grandchildren, Joy, Grace, Greyson, and Koa; and his sister, Sarah.

An alumnus of 4-H, Whitehaven High School and Yale University, which he attended on a full scholarship, Frank said Yale transformed "a provincial kid into a cosmopolitan person." He earned his EdD from Teachers College, Columbia University, where he served as a professor for decades.

A lifelong educator and leader, Frank devoted his career to improving public education. He served the Ridgewood public schools as Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction and later as President of the School Board. He was passionate about cultivating student inquiry and engagement. At Teachers College, he helped shape generations of educators, including by founding the first cohort-based EdD program for practicing administrators (INQUIRY), and as a devoted mentor throughout his life. He also led the New York City Division of High Schools, where he established a "house" program to foster greater student belonging in large comprehensive schools, and worked internationally in Nigeria, Chile, and the Philippines.

Friends know of Frank's quirky irreverence - he loved both classical art and folk crafts (including quilting), gardening (as a Napa Valley Master Gardener), opera, and good food - especially barbecue for which he was known to travel great distances. His intellectual curiosity, dedication to fair opportunity, and commitment to family and community building leave a legacy of thoughtful leadership, lifelong learning, and strong relationships. He will be greatly missed.

A celebration of life will be held in early 2026. For information: [email protected].

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tennessee 4H. https://tn4hfoundation.org/donate/