Media Advisory

Thursday, May 22, 2025 | 10:52am

NASHVILLE – Today, by order of the Tennessee Supreme Court, the Department of Correction carried out the death sentence of Oscar Franklin Smith by means of lethal injection at the Riverbend Maximum Security Institution. Inmate Smith was pronounced dead at 10:47 a.m. CDT.

Included are photos of the victims, and the statement from the victims’ family.

Victims Family Statement - On behalf of our family, we want to express our deepest gratitude to the investigators, law enforcement officers, and everyone within the judicial system who worked tirelessly to seek justice for our sister, Judy, and two nephews, Chad and Jason. Your dedication and commitment during this unimaginably difficult time have meant more to us than words can truly convey. Oscar Franklin Smith was tried and sentenced to the death penalty by the State of Tennessee, after a jury’s careful deliberation, based upon the brutality of three murders that included two children. As the family of the victims, we believe in the importance of accountability and the role the justice system plays in maintaining the safety and order of our society. The sentence was not ours to determine, but we stand by the legal system that made the decision. The pain of losing Judy, Chad, and Jason is something we will continue to carry. Not a moment goes by that we don’t miss them. We miss the sound of Judy’s voice on the other end of the phone. We miss the excitement of planning Chad’s driving lessons. And we miss the pure joy of hearing Jason’s laughter. These are both memories and wounds that never fully heal. Through our heartbreak, we are reminded of the devastating consequences of domestic violence. This tragedy is not only a personal loss—it is part of a much larger issue that affects countless families across our society. Domestic violence destroys lives. We hope that sharing our story helps others recognize the warning signs and dangers involved, especially for the children. For those who may be living in fear or in the grip of abuse, please know that you are not alone. There are people and resources out there who care and who can help. We know it is incredibly hard to leave—but pray that this case becomes a call to action, encouraging those in danger to seek help before it’s too late. We also pray that more resources and support will be made available to those who need that helping hand. No one should have to live in fear, and no family should have to endure a loss like ours.