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Longest-serving U.S. prisoner Francis Smith dies at 101

8/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Francis Clifford Smith died in June at age 101 while on supervised parole.
His 1954 death sentence was commuted to life, making him the nation’s longest-serving prisoner.
He entered supervised parole at MissionCare Health’s 60 West facility in 2020.
A 2025 study shows a 400% increase in inmates 55+ from 1991-2021.
He was nicknamed “The Birdman of Osborn” for feeding birds from his clothing.

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Story summary

Francis Clifford Smith died in June at age 101 while on supervised parole.
His 1954 death sentence was commuted to life, making him the nation’s longest-serving prisoner.
He entered supervised parole at MissionCare Health’s 60 West facility in 2020.
A 2025 study shows a 400% increase in inmates 55+ from 1991-2021.
He was nicknamed “The Birdman of Osborn” for feeding birds from his clothing.