Prepared by Skinner and Smith Funeral Home of Dunn, NC. Florence “Flo-Flodie” Ida Smith, 100, of Coats, passed away, Sunday, February 11, 2024, at Liberty Commons in Benson, NC. Florence was born in Holtz, PA on October 31, 1923, to the late Esther Love and Curvin Smith. She was also preceded by her husband Lt. George E. Frederick.

Florence attended Red Lion High School in Red Lion, PA (1942) and went on to obtain her RN from Maryland General Hospital in Baltimore, MD (1945). Being a RN was a career to which she was very well suited. Starting with Maryland General in the Central Supply department after graduation and working her way to being the Head Nurse for the Emergency Room.

In 1948, a handsome policeman, Lt. George E. Frederick entered her life. They were together for 21 years until his passing in 1969. George remained the love of her life.

After Maryland General, she moved through some local hospitals, did contract nursing work, and eventually landed at Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD. At Hopkins she flourished with the patients and physicians. In 1992 she retired from Hopkins but was unable to stop nursing. She returned to work with a private physician and dear friend, Dr. Rene Genadry. Once again, she decided to retire only to again be called back to work, this time for another physician, Dr. Ira Horowitz, in the role she cherished the most, caring for his daughters, Andrea and Rebecah.

Florence eventually settled in Dunn, NC and then Coats, NC with her daughter, Georgianna Frederick. Never one to slow down, Florence again sought work at the Cracker Barrel in Dunn where she made some wonderful friendships and was exhilarated with the customer interactions.

Many heartfelt thanks to the individuals and families who have welcomed us with open hearts and homes. Those people include the Godwins, Phillips, Tarts, Johnsons, Sikes, Annette Drew, Marcy Carter, Greta Robinson, Elizabeth O’Briant, Eugene Chance, Sharon White, Ann Tew, Danny Barnes, and many more. Because of your kindness there was much joy and many memories achieved and made.

A private interment was held at Bethel United Methodist Church in Brogue, PA. A Celebration of Life will be announced and held by the family at a later date.