Vernon Smalley

Vernon W. Smalley, 85, of Mansfield, died Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at MedCentral Mansfield Hospital. Born February 26, 1925 in Alberta, Canada, he was the son of George C. and Mary E. McGowan Smalley. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII under General Patton. Vernon retired from Jones Potato Chips after nine years of service and had also owned his own upholstery business. A wonderful man and devoted Christian, he was a member of Diamond Hill Cathedral where he was an usher and tour guide for the church for many years. Vernon enjoyed walking in North Lake Park, and was a man who never met a stranger, having many special friends. Most important was his large extended family, having attended many family celebrations.

He is survived by his son, Dennis and Judy Smalley of Lancaster; daughter, Linda Smalley of Logan; daughter-in-law, Sharon Smalley of Xenia; daughter, Carla Finnegan of Galion; four stepchildren and their spouses, Glenna and Del Rowland of Galion, Paulette and Mike Svoboda of Streetsboro, Deloris and Mike Vannoy of Georgia, Janiebird King of Mansfield; 22 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, and 21 great-great-grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Gerry Smalley of Beavercreek, Ohio; sister, Evelyn Boggs of Springfield; special cousin, Laran Williams of Canada; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Delores Ross Smalley; oldest son, Gary Smalley; brother, Jerry Smalley, stepdaughter, Cheryl Johnson; and brother-in-law, Bud Boggs.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, May 3, 2010 at the Diamond Hill Cathedral conducted by Rev. Mel Schroeder. Friends may call one hour prior to the service Monday at the church. Military graveside services conducted by the Richland County Joint Veteran's Burial Detail will follow in Mansfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in care of the family. Wappner Funeral Directors is privileged to serve the family of Vernon Smalley.