In Loving Memory of
John Norman Smallwood
November 11, 1965 – December 6, 2020
Virtual Celebration of Life Gathering was held December 28, 2020 at 4:00 PM EST
Our beloved, husband, father, son and brother John N. Smallwood Jr, passed away on December 6, 2020 after a lengthy illness. John was the youngest of 3 children born to John and Jacqueline Smallwood. John’s father was a career soldier who raised his family throughout the US and Europe, and eventually settled in Odenton MD.
John attended The University of Maryland, College Park and graduated in 1987 with a B.S. in Journalism. This began his lifelong career as a sports journalist at a variety of newspapers until he settled at the Philadelphia Daily News in 1994. At that time, John was the 2nd Black sports columnist in the United States. He continued his career at the Daily News until he retired in 2019. John always stated it “wasn’t a job, but a privilege to do something I love and get paid for it”. He was a very outgoing professional and his friendly personable manner consistently shone through which made people who interacted with him feel at ease. It is a fantastic personality trait to have in his profession!
In 2003, John married Yvette Williams and they welcomed their daughter Ryan Annette in 2004.
John was an avid photographer and one of his favorite subjects was his daughter Ryan. Ryan is a very talented ballet dancer (since she was a toddler) and John became not only the ultimate “Dance Dad” but the resident photographer at her dance school for all their performances.
John loved to travel, especially cruising. He and his family travelled extensively throughout his life. His dream was to settle in Maui, Hawaii, a place that they visited on a number of occasions.
John was a consummate professional but also a big kid at heart. When he was a child, he loved Speed Racer, Johnny Quest, comic books and all things Disney. That never changed! He loved theme parties, superheroes and dogs (Bentley!).
He is survived by his wife, Yvette (Williams) and daughter, Ryan. His parents John and Jacqueline Smallwood, mother-in-law Maggie Williams, sisters Gina Simpson, Pamela Candelaria (Ed Hutton), sister-in-laws Roselyn Shellington, Cheryl Judkins (Melvin), Sonya Lockhart, nieces Teale, Andrea, Ellen, nephews Ian, Brayden, William and a host of family and friends.
Charitable donations in John’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society or Cab Calloway School of the Arts.
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John will be missed by many but he will
always be in our hearts. My the Lord Jesus Christ comfort you and your family during your time of sorrow ??
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John Smallwood is one of the best GIRL DADS ever! John was a Dance Dad, a Mocha Dad, etc. He was a family man who loved his wife and daughter beyond words. John was kind, an encourager, and was a valued member of our Village. He will be sorely missed by so many. May the Smallwood Family take comfort in knowing John’s love for them is everlasting.
The 5 Scotts
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My prayers are with John’s family during this difficult time. John was a beautiful person and his spirit will live forever. May God bless his family and especially his wife Yvette and daughter Ryan. Ryan continue to soar in your dancing. Your dad is watching and couldn’t be prouder. Until we meet again. God bless, Stephanie Taylor
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John was such a kind soul who always made you feel comfortable to be around him — what a great quality to have! Always upbeat, always with a smile. He made the usually hardened press boxes light up with positive vibes. RIP, Smalls.
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Our fondest memories of John was his encouragement and support for the arts. His positive outlook in life despite anything that was going on in the world. The love for his beloved wife and daughter that would melt anyone’s heart. May you RIP John Smallwood and may you watch over us all. With love, The González Family.
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I was blessed to have known and worked with John. What a nice guy and it was so moving the way he fought through all his health problems. Such love for his wife and daughter. So proud of his daughter. He’ll be missed.
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In the love that surrounds you may find strength. In the memories you cherish may you find peace.
Blessings and love,
Alvin & Lawon
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John was a good man that I know his family and friends will miss. John’s job here is done. May the comfort of memories shared help you in this time of sorrow. John has earned his wings and went home to our father.
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John was always such a kind soul. I looked forward to his hello in the morning and us talking about the kids. He was always so proud of Ryan and I loved hearing about her newest dance endeavors. John always had a warm smile and a friendly conversation. He truly was one of a kind. ❤️
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John was one of the best guys we knew-he was kind, patient, courteous, humble, helpful, generous, funny and very knowledgeable-always enjoyed speaking with him about the most random things. We were neighbors who became friends and we will always be blessed to have known such an all-around good guy! May his family always feel his ever-lasting presence!
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There are times when there are few words left to heal us, when what we wish for is to be carried, when all we have left is the hope that tomorrow will be a more gentle place to land than today.
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Family, words cannot express what we are feeling. Your Aunt Corrine just cried. I felt lost. We serve an awesome God. Johnny we know God called you home. Now you are free to continue your work in heaven. May God continue to Bless you and your love one’s left behind. We will see you again.
Much Love,
Your cousin Kim J & Aunt Corrine
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Denice Johnson
Love, prayers and sympathy is extended to our family, the Smallwoods. Johnny’s smile and strong hugs will be missed. You fought a good fight cousin, now rest in peace.
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My heart and my prayers are with the Smallwood family. John was a wonderful person and he held you all in reverence. May the knowledge of his love for you give a modicum of comfort. And may the Lord give you strength in all the days ahead.
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We, Linda and I would like to offer our deepest sympathies and most heartfelt condolences to your entire family during AND after this period of mourning. May God be your shoulder to lean on and offer you solace and strength.
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Our deepest sympathies and love to the Smallwood family during this time of grief. God knows our every heartache and pain. May He console you all at this time.