Ray Smallwood

Emery ‘Ray’ Smallwood of Gainesville, Georgia, passed away on Friday, November 1, 2024. Ray was born on May 14,1942, in Cabbagetown, GA. Ray attended Roosevelt High School in Atlanta, where he played football and basketball and was selected to the All-City Basketball team for the Boys and Girls Club in Atlanta. 

 He was a devoted husband of 52 years to his wife, Dolores, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and cherished memories. After a long and successful career in sales in the food industry, Ray played an instrumental role in the 1980s in introducing cheerleading to the Gwinnett Football League (GFL) and was a passionate advocate for the value of sports and the importance of being a student-athlete. A loyal supporter of the Georgia Bulldogs and the Atlanta Braves, Ray’s enthusiasm for sports was a constant presence in his life. 

  Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Dolores; his three sons, Craig Champaign (Jennifer), Kevin Smallwood (Kim), and John Smallwood (Starr). 

  He leaves behind a cherished legacy in his grandchildren and great-grandchild, who will always remember him as the most loving and selfless “Pop” that ever was. He devoted countless moments to storytelling and making memories with Joseph Champaign, Makinlee Van Pamelen (Will), Gracie Champaign, Emma Smallwood, Garrett Smallwood, Brooks Smallwood, and Keely Smallwood. He was also one proud great-grandparent to Bennett Van Pamelen. His greatest source of pride was his family, and he will be remembered for his dedication and unwavering love for those closest to him. 

  In addition to his immediate family, Ray is survived by his two sisters, Faye Hood and Shirley Gunn (Russell), as well as many nieces and nephews. 

  The family will receive family and friends at Ingram Funeral Home in Cumming on Friday, November 8, 2024, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM. A celebration of Ray’s life will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at 11:00 AM in the funeral home chapel. Ingram Funeral Home 210 Ingram Ave. Cumming, Ga. 30040. In Lieu of flowers please make contributions to a charity of your choice.