Frank James Small, Sr., 79, of Palatka, entered the sunset of life on Friday, December 24, 2021 at UF Health Shands Hospital Gainesville. The son of James "Jim" and Alberta (Allen) Small, he was born on Monday, October 26, 1942 in Armstrong, FL. He was educated in the Putnam County School District and was a 1961 graduate of Central Academy High School. Frank enlisted in the U.S. Army and attained the rank of (Pvt) E2 and earned an honorable discharge. In his early years, he was a member of Holiness/Zion Temple COGIC and later joined Pentecostal COGIC under the leadership of Elder Johnny Shaw where he served as a deacon. He was employed by Central States Diversified for 35+ years. Frank was an auto mechanic and an avid Jaguars fan. He enjoyed fishing and spending time with family.

In addition to his parents, Frank was preceded in eternal rest by his wife , Irene Victoria (Johson) Small; grandchildren , Raheem Gillon, Mario Small, Jr.; siblings , Eugene Small, Rosetta Johnson, Nellie B. Gallon, Catherine Scott, Mary Lee Small; step-daughter, Cynthia Gilyard.

He leaves to cherish his memories: 7 children, Frank (Gloria) Vickers Small, Stone Mountain, GA; Angela (Jeffrey) Small Milton, Clermont; Frank (Katrina) Small, Jr., Mario (Helena) Small, Sonya Small Gillon, all of Kissimmee; Delvia Small-Carr, Holiday, FL; Jameika Small, Jacksonville; 25 grandchildren , 40 great grandchildren ; 3 brothers, Isaiah Small, Sr., Miami; Lonnie Small, Austell GA; Samuel Small, Florahome; sister, Bernice Small-Murphy, Phoenix, AZ; special friend, Audrey Richardson; special daughter-in-law , MaryAnn Hollinger; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews , other relatives and close friends.

Visitation of family and friends will be 5-7 p.m., Friday, January 7 at "Flagg's Chapel of Serenity." Frank's Celebration of Life with military honors will be 11 a.m., Saturday, January 8 at Passionate First Born Church of the Living God, 1708 Madison Street, Elder James Matthews, Pastor. Pastor Arthur Coley is the eulogist. Interment will be in Oak Hill West Cemetery.