Obituary of Johnnie Smallwood

Johnnie Smallwood was born in Rensselaer, Indiana on September 15, 1957.  He was the youngest of nine children born from the union of Nolan Thomas Smallwood and Verda (Collingsworth) Smallwood.  He moved to Michigan in 1966.

In 1978, Johnnie married Beverly Snow and the couple was blessed with three children.  For several years he was employed at Sottiles Auto Parts to provide for his family.  He then partnered with Harold “Scooter” Screiber and purchased B & A Standard on Elm Avenue next to the Sidetrack Saloon.  Johnnie worked as a mechanic and provided towing service for many years.  Following the closing of B & A he continued in the tow business as Midnight Towing.  He then took a position at Plastech. 

In 2011, Johnnie moved to Tennessee to help care for his brother, Tom.  Over the course of the next twelve years he came to cherish the Volunteer state.  John made his home in Kodak, where he soon met Sherry Newman.  The couple were inseparable companions for more than ten years and he served as her caregiver during her final illness.

John was very funny with a great sense of humor.  He enjoyed line dancing and wrenching on old cars and motorcycles.  He also loved sharing his knowledge with those around him.  For many years he enjoyed prepping cars for the demolition derby at the Monroe County Fair.   He took every opportunity to feel the wind in his face while riding his Harley Davidson.

John loved his pups, currently a toy poodle, and in the recent past a yorkie, but of all things in his life, Johnnie counted his children and grandchildren as most important.  There was nothing he wouldn’t do for them. 

Johnnie Smallwood, Sr., age 66 of Monroe passed away at 9:50am on Friday; March 29, 2024, at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital.  His passing was preceded by his parents; a former spouse: Beverly Rafko in 2013; his companion: Sherry Newman on May 7, 2023; four brothers: Harry, Jerry, Tom, and Larry Smallwood; and a sister: Rose Mabe.

To cherish his memory, he leaves three children: Crystal Bires, Johnnie (Lindsay) Smallwood Jr., and Kevin (Randi) Smallwood; three sisters: Ada (Richard) Coleman, Jan Steffens, and Betty (Norm) Tylutki; and nine grandchildren: Jhered and Brandon Bires, Nick, Michael, and Charlie Smallwood, Beverly Smallwood, Ethan, Drake, and Darion Krupin.

Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 4:00pm on Sunday; April 7, 2024, at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185.  A Celebration of His Life will take place at 4:00pm also at Merkle’s.  Cremation will follow through the on-site crematory, Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Smallwood family to assist with funeral arrangements.  Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.