James Donald Smallwood, Sr., age 75, passed away on November 3, 2023, in Dallas, Georgia. Born on September 23, 1948, in Birmingham, Alabama, Don lived a vibrant and impactful life marked by creativity, humor, and a deep love for his family and passions.
Don pursued his education at Dekalb College before embarking on a dynamic career that spanned several decades in the building and home improvement industry. He was a successful metro Atlanta builder known for his contemporary homes that reflected both innovation and craftsmanship. His professional journey also included serving as a store manager at Home Depot and later leading the remodeling division for Robert Bowden. In each role, Don brought intelligence, drive, and an uncanny ability to motivate those around him.
A man of many talents and interests, Don found joy in woodworking and building—skills that extended beyond his profession into his personal life. He was also an accomplished musician who enjoyed playing the harmonica and guitar. Fitness was another passion he embraced with enthusiasm throughout his life.
Don’s personality was as dynamic as his talents. He was known for being fun-loving, energetic, creative, and charismatic. His sharp wit and sense of humor made him unforgettable to those who knew him. He had a special place in his heart for animals and music, but above all else, he cherished time spent with family.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Malinda Smallwood of Dallas, Georgia; former wife Cynthia D. Smallwood of Canton, GA and their children; daughter, Sally Muir (Gordon) of Woodstock, Georgia; son James D. Smallwood Jr. (Connie) of Canton, Georgia; and daughter Julie Brookshire (Terry) of Canton, Georgia. He is also survived by his stepdaughters Kayla Dorsett (Jeff) and Kelsey McLucas (John), as well as, his brother Tommy Cornwell (Karen) of Anderson, South Carolina and sister-in-law, Joy Smallwood of Fairhope, AL.
Don’s legacy continues through his grandchildren: Ashley Muir, Lizzie Laurens, Charlotte Williams, Paul Muir, Matthew Muir, Joey Muir, Jacob Smallwood, Dallas Smallwood, Olivia Brown, Zach Brookshire, Bo, Macie, Toliver, Huck, Hazel, and Casey.
He was preceded in death by his mother Hortense (Toni) Cornwell; father William Lee Smallwood, Jr.; and brother William Lee (Billy) Smallwood III
A celebration of Don’s life was held in Woodstock, Georgia on December 3, 2023.
May the memory of James Donald Smallwood Sr.—his laughter, music, creativity, and love—bring comfort to all who knew him.
Don pursued his education at Dekalb College before embarking on a dynamic career that spanned several decades in the building and home improvement industry. He was a successful metro Atlanta builder known for his contemporary homes that reflected both innovation and craftsmanship. His professional journey also included serving as a store manager at Home Depot and later leading the remodeling division for Robert Bowden. In each role, Don brought intelligence, drive, and an uncanny ability to motivate those around him.
A man of many talents and interests, Don found joy in woodworking and building—skills that extended beyond his profession into his personal life. He was also an accomplished musician who enjoyed playing the harmonica and guitar. Fitness was another passion he embraced with enthusiasm throughout his life.
Don’s personality was as dynamic as his talents. He was known for being fun-loving, energetic, creative, and charismatic. His sharp wit and sense of humor made him unforgettable to those who knew him. He had a special place in his heart for animals and music, but above all else, he cherished time spent with family.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Malinda Smallwood of Dallas, Georgia; former wife Cynthia D. Smallwood of Canton, GA and their children; daughter, Sally Muir (Gordon) of Woodstock, Georgia; son James D. Smallwood Jr. (Connie) of Canton, Georgia; and daughter Julie Brookshire (Terry) of Canton, Georgia. He is also survived by his stepdaughters Kayla Dorsett (Jeff) and Kelsey McLucas (John), as well as, his brother Tommy Cornwell (Karen) of Anderson, South Carolina and sister-in-law, Joy Smallwood of Fairhope, AL.
Don’s legacy continues through his grandchildren: Ashley Muir, Lizzie Laurens, Charlotte Williams, Paul Muir, Matthew Muir, Joey Muir, Jacob Smallwood, Dallas Smallwood, Olivia Brown, Zach Brookshire, Bo, Macie, Toliver, Huck, Hazel, and Casey.
He was preceded in death by his mother Hortense (Toni) Cornwell; father William Lee Smallwood, Jr.; and brother William Lee (Billy) Smallwood III
A celebration of Don’s life was held in Woodstock, Georgia on December 3, 2023.
May the memory of James Donald Smallwood Sr.—his laughter, music, creativity, and love—bring comfort to all who knew him.
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