Joey Montreal Smith Jr. “2J”, of Rome, NY passed away unexpectedly at Suny Upstate Hospital. Born on April 15, 2016, in Rome, NY, he was the son of Dorthy Lee Sochia and Edward D Frank. He was a second-grade student at Gansevoort Elementary school where he was a beloved student and friend.

2J loved to go on fishing adventures with his dad and big brother “Jr”, together they would come home with fisherman tales to tell and the days catches.  He enjoyed watching and playing sports with his brothers, especially basketball and football and loved playing with his friends regardless of the season. 2J was a creative and talented artist who loved doing arts and crafts, he also enjoyed building Lego sets and playing video games. 2J loved to dance, his iconic dance moves will not be forgotten. He loved the Buffalo Bills but only because of Mr. B. His favorite foods were key lime pie, extra cheese pizza, bacon, turkey, and cheese sandwiches always toasted to perfection.

 2J will be remembered for his great sense of humor and ability to make others laugh and smile; he had an incredible gift to make others feel happy when it was needed the most and was always initiating group hugs. He was a beloved younger brother to “Jr”, a proud big brother to Edward, Kalino, and Dorthy Anne. He was an adoring son to his mother Dorthy whom he loved dearly. 2J left an incredible legacy of kindness, happiness, and humor; he will be missed be all lucky enough to have met such a special boy.

2J is survived by his parents Dorthy Lee Sochia and Edward Dewayne Frank; his brothers Nicolas “Jr.” Rodriguez, Edward D. Frank, and Kalino E. Frank; his baby sister Dorthy Anne Frank; grandparents Israel and Shirley Elizondo and Alonzo Lewis Jr, and Kelly Jean Domizio; great grandmother, Scharlena Loretta Fernalld. 2J also leaves behind his many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Memorial contributions may be made to  https://www.gofundme.com/f/joey-smith-jr-2j

Friends and family are invited to call on Sunday, March 10, 2024, from 3-6 PM, a funeral service will follow at 6:00 PM. Burial will take place in the spring at Evergreen Cemetery. Services are entrusted to Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home, 7751 Merrick Road, Rome, NY 13440.  

A candlelight vigil will be held on April 15, 2024, at 7:45 P.M. at Gansevoort Elementary School, all are welcome to attend.