Wayne Smallwood

Wayne Smallwood, 84, of Hamilton, Ohio, passed away on March 13, 2025. Born in Manchester, KY, on January 31, 1941, he was the son of O.B. and Martha (Jones) Smallwood. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Bill. He grew up alongside his five siblings: Bill Smallwood, Dorothy Garland, Lavone Johnson, Reva Neer, and Eddie Smallwood.

Wayne proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1962 in Company D, 3rd Medium Tank Battalion, 33rd Armor, as a Tanker in Germany, demonstrating a deep commitment to his country. After his military service, he worked at Omar Bakery before dedicating 30 years to General Motors, where he spent much of his career before retiring in 1993.

In 1961, Wayne married Lorraine Croucher, and together they raised three sons: Jeff & Renee (Farmer), Brian & Kristi (Earls), and Barry & Anne (Brandner). They were blessed with five grandchildren: Cammie & Chase (Funke), Ty & Lauren (Copas), Cody & Alexia (Jonson), Emily & Devon (Seniours), and Megan & Dylan (Blevins), as well as eleven great-grandchildren.

Wayne married Kathie Smallwood on March 11, 2006. He was the love of Kathie's life and together they shared more than 20 years of love and companionship. Upon his marriage to Kathie, his family grew as he embraced Kathie's children, Curt Schannen and Hollie Parrish. He also played a very formative role in the upbringing of granddaughter Peyton Teeters.

After retiring, Wayne obtained his personal training license and set a Master's Powerlifting Record by bench pressing 460 lbs. He was a passionate advocate for fitness, owning several gyms throughout his life, including J&W Gym Club and Wayne's Fitness One. Through his devotion to health and fitness, he inspired many and fostered a strong sense of community. His lasting impact on the gym community is a testament to his dedication and inspiration.

His family and friends will forever cherish his strength, love, and passion for life. He will be remembered fondly for his kindness and acceptance, he spoke to everyone as if they were his best friend and truly embodied his favorite saying, "Treat people how you'd want to be treated." Wayne's legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A celebration of Wayne's life will be held Saturday, March 22nd from 2:00-5:00 P.M. at Basil 1791 located at 241 High St. Hamilton, Ohio.