Miriam Joyce Smallwood 80, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday June 30, 2021. Born on May 16, 1941 to Mamie Lois Skipper Raley and Raymond Floyd she grew up in the Grant Park area of Atlanta and attended Smith-Hoke High School where she met the love of her life, Frank. They married on August 29th 1957 and were devoted to each other and the loving family they created. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mamie Lois Skipper Raley Floyd Lovell, and Raymond Floyd; husband, Frank Smallwood; sisters H. Inez Raley Thomas, Annalois "Boots" Raley Fountain, and brother, Albert "Bunny" Raley. She is survived by her children, Curtis (Kim) Smallwood of Clearwater Fl., Denise Smallwood of Acworth, Andy (Kathy) Smallwood of Snellville, Al Smallwood of Acworth; grandchildren Angie and Jake Smallwood; and 23 loving nieces and nephews of subsequent generations. Not content with the splendid family of close relations, she became Nana Joyce to a new generation of adopted family. They all reflect her generous love.
More than anything she loved her family and friends. She shared her considerable energy with everyone. In her younger days she and Frank bowled on a bowling league and created spectacular celebratory gatherings for family and friends. She was Denise's cheerleading Mom and ran that squad like a pro. She and Frank never missed a football or marching band performance for their boys. She stayed at home till her children were raised creating lifetimes of wonderful memories. When Al went to school she returned to work as an insurance underwriter assistant and developed another extended group of treasured friends. Cooking was her gift and she did that well and was happy cooking for her family and friends. She made everyone feel cherished and welcome in her home.
Joyce loved her Lord and all her church family, from Sunday worship to Ladies Bible Study. Her time at the beach with her family and girl friend trips was something she looked forward to every summer. Nothing brought her more joy and love than her two grandchildren Angie and Jake. Her face would light up and she was like a child herself with them.
Services to celebrate Joyce's life will be held with an informal viewing at Georgia Funeral Care in Acworth on Friday, July 2nd at 6 pm 'til 9 pm. The funeral is Saturday, July 3, 2021 at Mount Paran North, 1700 Allgood Road, Marietta. There will be a short viewing at 11:00 am with the service to follow at 12:00 pm. Internment will follow at Mount Harmony Memorial Gardens, Mableton.
