Elly Smallwood

Elly Smallwood, lovingly known as "Oma", passed away on December 19, 2025, in Hewitt, Texas, at the age of 88. She was born on May 28, 1937, in Stuttgart, Germany. She met her husband, Thomas Smallwood, at an early age, was married, and soon accompanied him to her new home in America where she brought warmth and joy to all those around her with her nurturing spirit and boundless love.

Throughout her life, she dedicated herself to serving others. She drew from her organizational skills learned working as a Secretary in Germany and applied them to a successful career in retail management. She took great pride in her home and garden and kept herself busy making sure everything was always perfect, but her greatest joy came from caring for her husband, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Elly's tender touch and loving personality created a haven for anyone who crossed her path.

Her life was woven with the fabric of family, and she cherished each member as a bright thread in her tapestry. Elly’s devotion to her loved ones was unwavering. Her legacy of love is carried on by her children, Natascha Greer and husband Kevin, and Tommy Smallwood and wife Gwen. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Benjamin Stoneberg and wife Jodi, Lindsey Tidwell and husband Shane, Andrew Stoneberg and wife Melissa, Trinity Fowler, Natalie Stowers and husband Daniel, Erin Fowler, Matthew Greer, Paula Davis, Paul Garcia, Jeffrey Smallwood and wife Ashley, and Aaron Garcia, along with 21 great-grandchildren who all brought endless joy to her life.

Though Elly faced the sorrow of losing her beloved husband Thomas, two of her dear children, Jeffrey T. H. Smallwood and Susanne Hammond, and her grandson Christopher Greer, her spirit remained vibrant, and her love continued to weave through the lives of those she touched, keeping their memories alive in her heart.

Elly's passions extended beyond family; she found immense joy in cooking and entertaining, crafting meals that not only nourished but also brought people together. In every meal she prepared and every moment she shared, her love was the secret ingredient that fostered connection and harmony.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Elly's life on January 9, 2026, at St. Jerome Catholic Church in Waco, Texas. Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM, followed by a Mass at 10:00 AM. Elly will then be lovingly laid to rest during an inurnment at Waco Memorial Park at 11:45 AM.

As we gather to honor the life of this remarkable woman, we find comfort in the legacy of love she leaves behind, knowing she will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends. Elly was a beacon of kindness, joy, and unwavering love, and though her physical presence will be missed, her spirit remains forever engraved in the hearts of those who knew her – a true testament to a life lived in love.