I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that live is appearing. II Timothy 4:7-8

Steve Smallwood, Jr., 29, affectionately known as “Buck,” transitioned unexpectedly on May 3, 2026, at Bon Secours Southside Medical Center in Petersburg, Virginia.

Steve was born on January 29, 1997, to Steve and Felicia Smallwood. From an early age, he displayed a vibrant spirit and a natural ability to connect with others. He was known for his genuine heart, infectious smile, and sense of humor that could light up any room. If you knew Steve, you knew laughter.

Steve graduated from Surry County High School in 2015. His love for football began at the age of seven and remained a defining part of his life through his college years. Whether on the field or cheering from the sidelines, he carried a deep passion for the game and was a devoted fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Beyond football, Steve found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved riding motorcycles, spending peaceful days fishing, and challenging friends and family to a game of chess. He was someone who valued connection, conversation, and making lasting memories with those around him.

Steve was employed by Huntington Ingalls Industries, Newport News, VA, where he was known for his strong work ethic and dedication.

Though his time here was far too short, the impact he made will be felt forever.

Steve was preceded in death by his grandmother, Catherine “Smook” Smallwood; grandfather, Frank L. Smallwood; aunt, Janet Smallwood-Vaughan; and uncle, Nelson L. Gray.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving parents, Steve and Felicia Smallwood; his sister, Jasmine Cooper (Roosevelt); his niece, Laila; and his nephew, Isaiah, all of Suffolk, Virginia. He is also survived by his maternal grandparents, Thomas and Barbara Jones of Prince George, Virginia; his aunt, Thomasine Jones of Atlanta, Georgia; three great-aunts, Patricia Butts of Wakefield, Virginia, Doris Parson (Allen) of Elberon, Virginia, and Lucille Turner of Ivor, Virginia; and two great-uncles, Nathanial Gray (Colleen) of Waverly, Virginia, and Earnest Gray of Wakefield, Virginia.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Morning Star Baptist Church, 19121 Brandon Road, Spring Grove, Virginia (Prince George County). Reverend Dr. Robert L. Elliott, Jr. will serve as Pastor and Eulogist. Interment will follow at Waverly Cemetery on Spring Branch Road.

Family and friends are invited to a Public Viewing on Monday, May 11, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Peace Funeral Home, 237 Railroad Avenue, Waverly, Virginia. Visitation with the Family will follow from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Please continue to keep the Family uplifted in prayer.