Richard E. Smallwood

Richard Earl Smallwood Sr., age 70, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2026, at his home in Aynor, South Carolina. Born on December 29, 1955, in Washington, D.C., Richard later lived in Maryland and Virginia before building a life centered on family, hard work, and adventure. He dedicated many years of service to Washington Gas Light Company and Richmond Gas & Water, where he was respected for his strong work ethic and dependable nature. Richard had a passion for life and enjoyed muscle cars, motorcycles, camping, and traveling. He loved spending time in places such as Myrtle Beach, the Outer Banks, West Virginia, Virginia, Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee. He appreciated the open road, the outdoors, and making memories with those he loved. He is survived by his wife, Darlene Smallwood; his children, Kristen Nichole Schofield, Richard Earl Smallwood Jr., Belinda Anne Smallwood, and Brian Franklin Smallwood; and his cherished grandchildren, Alivia, Brantley, Connor, Reagan, and Aysling. He also leaves behind numerous extended family members and friends who will miss him deeply. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Earl Smallwood and Emily Virginia McGee Smallwood, and by many other beloved family members. He will be remembered for his love of family, adventurous spirit, and the many memories he created throughout his life. A memorial service for Richard will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Johnson Funeral Home Chapel. The family will visit with friends prior to the service beginning at 10:00 AM, and also at their home following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Richard’s memory to the American Stroke Association, Autism Speaks, or the Epilepsy Foundation of America.