Judith Diane Smallwood

Judith Diane Smallwood, a resident of Odenton, MD, passed away on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, DC. She was 75.  Judith was born on August 13, 1948, in Omaha, Nebraska and was the daughter of the late John Henry and Myrtle McCrea.

Judith Diane Smallwood was born Judith Diane McCrea in Omaha, Nebraska on August 13, 1948.  In 1969, Judith’s fearless, adventurous attitude would lead her to embark on a career with the Federal Government in Washington, DC.  As a Retirement Benefits Counselor, her career embodied her tireless, giving nature.  In 2021, after 52 years of Federal service, Judith made the decision to retire.  When asked why she worked that long she would simply say – “I love my job and helping my people.”  Washington, DC would also be where Judith met the love of her life, William (Bill was the nickname she gave to him) Dennis Smallwood.  They married August 19, 1972 and had 24 joyful years together until his passing on May 29, 1997.  Judith was also a devout Christian that loved and faithfully served the Lord. 

Judith’s passion for travel took her all over the world, literally.  She visited all 50 states within the U.S. and went on to visit Greece, Italy, Morocco, Switzerland, Germany, Mexico, Canada, Jamaica, Israel, Japan, England and France.  She enjoyed sharing these moments with those closest to her – children, family and friends.  Her greatest joy, however, was the love she had for her sons – Deron and Darnell.  We will forever grieve her passing, but are comforted in knowing she is with the Lord.  A Chapter completed, A Page turned, A Life well-lived, A Rest well earned.   

Judith is survived by her beloved sons, Deron and Darnell Smallwood; 3 devoted brothers, John Henry McCrea, Jr. (Darlene), Joseph Jones, Jr. and Rodman Jones; 3 loving sisters, Karen Gray (Rodney), Jerilynn Conner, and Terri Jones McMillian (Mark) and a host of nieces and nephews. Judith is preceded in death by her husband, William (Bill) Dennis Smallwood. 

The family will receive friends at the Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory, P.A., on Monday, November 27, 2023, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will be held at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church of Lanham, 5120 Whitfield Chapel Road, Lanham, MD, 20706 on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at 10:00 am. A viewing will take place from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. Interment will follow to National Harmony Memorial Park, Hyattsville, MD.

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