LeRoy Ellison Smalls

Leroy’s Story

Leroy E. Smalls was born Saturday October 27, 1928 to the late Gardenia and Willie Smalls Sr., in Sumter, South Carolina.

He professed his love and acceptance for Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior at a very young age.

 He came to Cleveland July 4, 1945 and graduated from John Hay High School.

 During his high school days he was very much in love with Merdis Doris Odom-Smalls. She was the love of his life. They married on August 26, 1950 and two daughters were born to this union; Valencia Smalls-Wright and Juana Smalls. On Tuesday March 13 1951 Leroy entered the Army and served in the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged August 25, 1951.

Leroy was an outstanding husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend to many.

He was very active in the neighborhood, where he formed the Beaver Drill Team, to help the upcoming young men get direction in what life is built upon morals, values and respect. He became a part of the Masonic Order in March of 1963. Leroy was very instrumental in helping a lot of people in his lifetime. He lead the drum Bugle Corp. with the EL-HASA Temple lodge #28.

He retired from the postal service March 1990.

His brother Willie Smalls Jr. preceded him in death.

On Tuesday May 16, 2023 God called Leroy’s name and he answered the call.

He leaves to cherish his memories and mourn his passing his  daughters; Valencia Smalls- Wright (Nicholas), Juanna Smalls (Marvin Lacy), Grandson; Dominic Wright, Great Grandchildren; Carmella Wright, Angelo Wright, and Nico Wright and a host of nieces and nephews.

Honorary Sons; Nicholas Wright, Marc Moore, Greg Doss and DeJon Jackson.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of LeRoy Ellison Smalls, please visit our floral store.