The Vero Beach community is mourning the loss of several cherished residents who recently passed away. From distinguished careers in marine biology and aerospace to decades of service in local healthcare, these individuals left an indelible mark on Indian River County and beyond. The following tributes highlight the lives and legacies of those we have lost in January 2026.
Edward Frank Klima (1934–2026)
Edward Frank Klima, 91, of Vero Beach, passed away peacefully at home on January 17, 2026. A dedicated scientist and lover of the outdoors, Klima spent his professional life contributing significantly to marine conservation. After graduating from the University of Miami and earning his Ph.D. from the University of Utah, he built an impressive career with the Bureau of Commercial Fisheries and NOAA.
Notably, Klima served as the Director of the Galveston Laboratory (NOAA) from 1977 until his retirement in 1993. His work was pivotal in the preservation of endangered sea turtles, particularly through his collaboration on the development of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs), which reduced turtle mortality while supporting sustainable fishing. He is survived by his wife, Judith Rox-Klima, and a large extended family. A private celebration of life will follow.
Scientific Legacy: Throughout his career, Ed was widely respected for his scientific research… In collaboration with fellow scientists and the U.S. Shrimp Association, he helped develop Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs), significantly reducing sea turtle mortality while supporting sustainable fishing practices.
Nancy Jean Faison Smith (1937–2026)
Nancy Jean Faison Smith, 88, passed away on January 20, 2026. Born in Richmond, Virginia, she became a long-time resident of Vero Beach, dedicating her career to caring for others at Indian River Memorial Hospital. A Certified Nurse Midwife and Nurse Practitioner, Smith was known for her insatiable curiosity and compassion. Outside of her medical service, she was a member of Temple Beth Shalom Vero and enjoyed hobbies ranging from Tai Chi to making jam.
A celebration of her life is scheduled for February 8, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home in Vero Beach. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the World Central Kitchen or simply performing an act of kindness in her memory.
F. Paul Mita, Jr. (1933–2026)
Francis “Paul” Mita, Jr., 93, passed away on January 11, 2026, at his Vero Beach home. Mita led an adventurous life, from setting records in track and field at LaSalle College to working as a business manager for GE in a program that laid the groundwork for the United States Satellite Program and NASA. Later in life, he became a successful entrepreneur in Pennsylvania before retiring to Florida. He was known for his diverse interests, including boat restoration and entertaining passersby on the boardwalk with his harmonica.
Additional Community Losses
The community also remembers Lowell “Buddy” E. Odom, 70, who passed away on January 17, 2026. Born in Vero Beach, Odom died at his home in Franklin, North Carolina. A funeral service will be held locally on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the 20th Avenue Church of God in Vero Beach.
Thomas Patrick Spencer IV, 53, passed away in Vero Beach on January 17, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory.
Arrangements for all noted services are being handled by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory in Vero Beach. Residents wishing to send condolences or make donations should refer to the specific requests of each family.
