Earlene R. Smallwood

Anniston, Alabama, on May 29, 1956, to Early and Elizabeth Reynolds.

Earlene was the second oldest of 10 children and leaves only two surviving siblings Sue Ann and Eddie. Earlene touched many lives in her 64 years on this earth. She attended UAB where she earned her RN and dedicated many of the following years helping others at both UAB and Princeton Hospitals. After which, she served the Lord and community as a Lloyd Noland “Pink Lady” until the hospital closed in 2004. Earlene loved to help others. She was a dedicated member of Ensley Baptist Church with more than 30 years serving as a Sunday School teacher and choir member. She was also a member of the Salvation Army for 50+ years. She served as a bell ringer as well as working with the Angel Tree during Christmas and was also a member of the Home League.

The only thing Earlene loved more than helping others was her family. Earlene married the love of her life Richard Smallwood in 1980 and was blessed with a daughter in December 1984. Sadly, Earlene was widowed in 2003 and dedicated her remaining years to serving the Lord and her family. She was an amazing mother to her only daughter Samantha Isbell and a wonderful aunt to her many nieces and nephews. She was viewed as a surrogate mother and later grandmother figure to many extended family and friends. Earlene became a grandmother for the first time in 2017 and her grandson became the highlight of her later years. Earlene still set aside time to lighten the lives of friends and family with letters and gifts, all between attending Springdale Baptist Church, spending time with her grandson, and so much more. Her friends recall fond memories of her heart felt cards for both holidays and “just because” occasions. Earlene never missed a birthday, anniversary, or any special event in people’s lives. She always had a special token or treat on hand for anything that would arise. Friends and family also recall her cooking and famous pecan pies. All of which will be sorely missed.

We all thank you Earlene, for everything you did, and all the lives you touched. Rest easy with the Lord until we meet again. We love you very much.

Earlene is survived by her daughter Samantha Isbell (Matt), grandson Liam, sister Sue Ann North, brother Eddie Reynolds (Sherry), nieces Christy, Holly, Keri, Mary Beth and Melissa, nephews Bryan, Matthew, and Chris.

A celebration of life visitation for Earlene will be held Saturday, March 27, 2021 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Ridout's Gardendale Chapel, 2029 Decatur Highway, Gardendale, AL 35071. A celebration of life service will occur Saturday, March 27, 2021 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 2029 Decatur Highway, Gardendale, AL 35071. A burial will occur at Oakland Cemetery, 1230 Warrior Rd, Ensley, Alabama 35218.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ridoutsgardendalechapel.com for the Smallwood family.