How LL Cool J's Wife Simone I Smith Paid Tribute to the Late Frank Castagna

LL Cool J's wife Simone I. Smith has paid tribute in honor of the late Frank Castagna by sharing a touching throwback.

LL Cool J's wife Simone I. Smith has paid a touching tribute to Frank Castagna by sharing a sweet throwback of their time together.

Smith shared the photo accompanied by a sweet message, writing that she would miss his smile and kindness.

Castagna, who was 91 when he died, was a prominent Long Island real estate developer as well as a respected philanthropist.

His firm was responsible for Americana Manhasset, a luxury fashion development that houses labels such as Loius Vitton, Chanel, and Gucci. They took to social media to comment on his passing saying,

"Frank touched countless people in both his business and his personal life, and for him, there was hardly a line between the two. Frank, you are in our hearts now and always."

He was also involved in philanthropic efforts, serving on the board of numerous charities and organizations including hosting an annual "Champions for Charity" benefit.

Castagna passed away after a year-long fight with cancer. He leaves behind his wife Rita, daughter Catherine, and seven grandchildren.

The couple who have been together for over 24 years, often speak about their relationship.

Smith, who met the philanthropist at her jewelry line's trunk show, shared a photo of herself and her husband with the titan.

The couple who have been together for over 24 years, often speak about their relationship, even opening up about Smith being diagnosed with bone cancer. Her husband said,

"You don't abandon someone in that foxhole, you know. You got to be there in that foxhole with them. So I made some decisions professionally and decided to be by Simon's side."

LL Cool J (R) and Simone Smith attend the Pre-GRAMMY Gala and GRAMMY Salute to Industry Icons | Photo: Getty Images

The couple has four children, son Najee Laurent and daughters Italia Anita, Samaria Leah, and Nina Simone Smith.

Smith is also a jewelry designer and even partnered with Mary J. Blige to create the jewelry line "Sister Love" that featured hoop earrings.

Smith added that the collection had been inspired by the friendship between the two women, wanting it to celebrate powerful women.

Blige added that it was easy for her to work with Smith as she was already a fan of her previous pieces saying that she trusted her sense of fashion.

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