Kathy Smallwood Obituary

Kathy Teal Waldrip Smallwood, 74, passed away peacefully at home in the early morning of June 20, 2025, following an extended illness which she bravely fought. Services will be held June 23, 2025, in the Christian Fellowship Center at Byron Heritage Church, 103 W Heritage Blvd, Byron, GA 31008. The family will receive friends beginning at 11:00 AM, immediately followed by the service at 12:00 Noon. The Rev. Josh Bizzell will officiate.
Kathy was born in Vienna, Georgia, September 11, 1950. She grew up in Byron where she graduated in 1968, receiving the last diploma handed out from the old Byron High School. She was fond of sports and was a standout basketball player for Byron High. She also loved her Georgia Bulldogs. She graduated from Georgia College in 1972 with a degree in education. After a period of being a homemaker, she taught at Byron Middle School for seven years. She later embarked on a career as a paralegal at The Office of the Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Trustee for 20 plus years, until her retirement in 2015.
Kathy was blessed with a great sense of humor. All that knew her learned that almost anything in life could be funny. The only thing Kathy loved more than laughter was her family. She was a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt and most proudly being "Ninny" to her four grandchildren. Kathy's kindness, positive outlook, and laughter will be missed by all that knew her.
She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Ricky Smallwood; her children Chris Smallwood and Keith Smallwood (Lyndell); grandchildren Micah Smallwood, Noah Smallwood, Preston Smallwood, and Brett Smallwood; brother Mike Waldrip (Pat); sisters Jeanie Smith, Pat Sellers (Ricky), and Kay Howell (Glenn); and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents Klon and Betty Waldrip, and a brother in law, David Smith. The family wishes to express their gratitude for the extraordinary care and compassion from her many caretakers.
She was a member of Byron Heritage Church. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to their Building Fund. Rooks Funeral Home in Byron is in charge of arrangements.
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