Mrs. Georgella Smalls gained her angel wings on April 4, 2020, in Bronx, New York. Georgella was 81 years old.

Georgella was born on Mary Jenkins Plantation on Saint Helena Island, South Carolina on November 2, 1938, to her loving parents, Rosa Chaplin and Benjamin Smalls. Raised by her devoted grandmother, Rebecca (Hessie) Chaplin, whom she lovingly called "Momma," Georgella grew up in a home filled with faith, love, and resilience. She was the eldest of 12 siblings: Ruby, Nathaniel, Andrew, Eleanor, Christina, Emma, Viola, Richard, Charles, Barion, Lucille, and Kenneth, each of whom she cared for deeply and guided with her nurturing spirit.  She was baptized at a young age at Saint Joseph Baptist Church of Saint Helena Island.

In 1959, she left South Carolina and moved to NYC.  On October 18, 1959, Georgella married the love of her life, Freeman Bill Smalls, at Greater Calvary Baptist Church in the village of Harlem. In the early years of her career, she worked diligently at a book and magazine binding company, demonstrating a strong work ethic and dedication.

Georgella was a talented and adventurous woman who embraced many passions throughout her life. She was a gifted singer, a devoted member of Convent Avenue Baptist Church, and a cherished member of its choir. When she wasn’t lifting spirits through song or enjoying her favorite soap operas, Georgella could often be found at Planet Fitness, staying active on the treadmill or elliptical.

Above all, Georgella’s greatest joy and proudest achievement was her family. She spoke endlessly about how much her children and loved ones meant to her, treasuring the bonds that brought her life so much meaning.

Georgella is survived by her loving husband, Freeman; her children, Earl and LaVerne; children she raised from young ages, Adriana, Yolanda, and Ushawn; her grandchildren, Candy, Steven, Adrian, Lion, and Celisse; her great-grandchildren, Nolan, Nathan, Olivia, Victoria, Royal; and a host of beloved family and friends. Georgella was predeceased by her son, Eric Smalls, and her great-grandson, Michael Cloud Jr.

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A memorial for the 5th anniversary of her passing will be held in New York on Saturday, April 5, 2025.

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