Biography
Laura Nelson Smalls, a daughter of Holland and Ruth Halley Nelson, was born on April 10, 1938 in Camden, South Carolina. She departed this life February 17, 2012 in Charleston, SC.
She received her education in South Carolina and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Laura met and later married William “Lukie” Smalls. This union was blessed with six children.
Laura accepted Christ at an early age. Upon relocating to St. Stephen, SC, she joined Allen A.M.E. Church.
Laura was a devoted employee of the Berkeley County School District for many, many years. Although she retired when her health failed, she continued to volunteer at St. Stephen Elementary School. Laura enjoyed working with children and helping others.
Laura’s passions were: children, fishing, quilting and Bingo.
She leaves to cherish many fond memories: two daughters, Cherry Broadway, Flint, MI and Valarie Smalls Pryor (Kevin), Greenville, SC; four sons, Darrell Smalls, Philadelphia, PA, William Dexter (Ardon) Smalls, Decatur, GA, Derek (Dyke) Smalls, Atlanta, GA, and Damon Smalls of St. Stephen, SC; a special niece, Leslie (Dubey) Gornero; four sisters, Gloria Hadley, Ruth Fain, Marcia Williams and Rita Gillis all of Philadelphia, PA; one brother, Holland Nelson, Jr. of Philadelphia, PA; eight beautiful grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; a very special goddaughter, Candice West; three very close friends, Linda Wilson, Venezuela Ford and Stella Senna; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.
Facts
Born: April 10, 1938
Place of Birth: Camden, SC
Death: February 17, 2012
Place of Death: Charleston, SC
Occupation: Teacher's Aide
Survivors
Valarie Smalls, Daughter
Darrell O. Smalls, Son
William D. Smalls, Son
Derek R. Smalls, Son
Damon O. Smalls, Son
Gloria Halley, Sister
Ruth Fain, Sister
Holland Nelson, Jr., Brother
Marcia Williams, Sister
Rita Gillis, Sister
Services
MEMORIAL SERVICE
Saturday
February 25, 2012, 11:00 a.m.
at
St. Stephen Elementary School, St. Stephen, SC
Click for Map and Directions