Mildred W. Smallwood

Monticello - Mildred Watkins Smallwood passed away August 12, 2013, in Monticello, FL where she had resided since January 2012. She was born to Jackson Watkins and Ola Fowler Watkins on October 28, 1912, in Gulf Hammock, FL.

Left to cherish her memories are her nine children, daughters: Amelia Dampier, Ocala, FL; Maxine Sharpe, Boynton Beach, FL; Sarah Varnum, West Chester, OH; Lugene Schinagel, Belleview, FL; Joann Starr, Cromwell, OK; Abby McGehee, Monticello, FL.; sons: Donald Smallwood, Livingston, LA; Carl Smallwood and Hank Smallwood, Ocala, FL; 36 grandchildren; 65 great grandchildren and 15 great great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews and many, many friends.

She was preceded in death by: husband, Burland Smallwood; grandson, Carl Smallwood, Jr; mother, Ola Watkins; father, Jackson Watkins; and nine siblings.

Mildred was born and raised in Gulf Hammock. She was a generous soul with the harvest of her garden and the abundance of flowers and plants she shared with anyone who came by. She enjoyed gathering oysters in Shell Mound and fishing in Wekiva. But best of all was the delicious food, such as creamed corn, fried chicken and biscuits from her kitchen. There were always extra chairs for unexpected visitors. She loved her family and never met a stranger. Her children and numerous grandchildren were lovingly devoted to her.

Services will be held at her home church, Life Tabernacle, Ocala, FL., 2940 NE 35th Street on Friday, August 16th at 10:00 am. Viewing will be at the church - 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Thursday.