Willie Ellen Small

Willie Small died peacefully on March 14 at Pflugerville Pfamily Tree Assisted Living. She was the adored “Mama” of three daughters and the beloved “Granny” of two grandchildren – who will all forever treasure her constant open-hearted encouragement, unwavering support and unconditional love.

Willie was born September 7,1927 in Clovis, New Mexico, to W.E. Williams, who owned the local dry goods store, and Leola Williams, an elementary school teacher. Willie spent her youth in Bovina, Texas, the elder sister of siblings Martha and Chuck. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in music education, specializing in voice, at McMurry College in Abilene, where she was a member of the Chanters, a travelling choral group.

Willie was married for 20 years to George Small, the father of her three daughters. At the age of 40, she completed a Master’s degree in education at the University of North Texas.

Willie taught elementary school music education in Austin throughout the 1970’s and ‘80’s, and was renowned as an enthusiastic director of

student choral performances. She instilled a love of music in many hundreds of children, before retiring in 1992 to devote herself to her grandchildren and volunteer work. She volunteered for Meals on Wheels and regularly transported elderly patients to medical appointments.

She was a decades-long parishioner of All Saints’ Episcopal Church, where she sang in the choir and was a member of the Daughters of the King. She was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star.

Willie’s was always a musical life, in the classroom, church, and at home: she sang and played piano often, and her girls all inherited her love of Broadway musicals.

As her siblings, friends and descendants can all attest, for most of her years Willie was truly the life of every party, thrilled to be with loved ones, and happy to provide the entertainment.

Willie Small is survived by daughters Sharon Ray and spouse Jim of Austin, Martha Morgan and spouse Grant of Austin, and Mauri Small and spouse Andy Schulz of Brooklyn, New York; siblings Martha Barnett of Dallas and Chuck Williams of McKinney; and grandchildren Jessica Ray and spouse James Ray of Austin, and Will Schulz of London.

The family offers heartfelt thanks to all the staff at Pflugerville Pfamily Tree, who loved and cared for Willie as only true “Family” can.

The funeral service will be held Wednesday, March 18 at 10:00 a.m. at All Saints’ Episcopal Church, with reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to All Saints’ Episcopal Church or the charity of your choice.