Barbara Ann Smallwood

Barbara Ann Smallwood died unexpectedly at her home in Laurel Maryland on May 29, 2025.

Barbara was born to Joseph and Evelyn Smallwood on May 8, 1955, in Washington DC, the youngest of seven children. She lived most of her childhood in Prince Georges County in houses her father built. Barbara graduated from DuVal High School. She went on to earn an Associates degree from Howard Community College and numerous IT certifications. In 1989 she met Stephanie Nester who was her partner, then wife for the past 36 years.

Barbara worked as a senior technical trainer in various industries, most recently at the University of Maryland Medical System. She retired in 2015. She then spent several years caring for her in-laws. Barbara and Stephanie created a beautiful loving home where friends and family enjoy gathering. Barbara collected friends everywhere she went, with many of these friendships lasting for decades. She loved sharing dinners with her friends, and she especially treasured the monthly lunches she shared with her siblings.

Barbara had a wonderful singing voice and sang in many choirs over the years. She loved watching sports, particularly the Ravens.  Barbara loved movies. Her Saturday night popcorn and movie nights with Stephanie were non-negotiable. A gift from her mother started Barbara’s lifelong passion for elephant collectibles. She has beautiful and unique figurines from all over the world.  She was an avid reader (averaging 10 books a month), had an 885-day streak of solving the daily Wordle puzzle, enjoyed traveling, and loved to take long walks with Stephanie and their rescue huskies Callisto and Sansa.  

She certainly led a rich life and will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know her.

Barbara’s friends and family will remember her playful sense of humor, her warm laugh, and her calm presence.

She is survived by her wife Stephanie, her sister Mary Davis (Lawrence) of Bowie Maryland, her brother Jerome also of Bowie, several sisters-in-law, brothers-in law and many nieces and nephews. Barbara was predeceased by her parents and her brothers Joseph Jr., John, James, and Jerry.

There will be a Celebration of Life Service June 21st at 1:00 PM at their home. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Barbara's memory to the Husky Education and Rescue Team (H.E.A.R.T.) or the American Heart Association.

Interment is private. 

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