Russell Joe Smallwood

Russell “Rusty” Smallwood, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on February 15, 2024, at the age of 61. Rusty was a man of unwavering faith, a Christian who lived his beliefs through love, kindness, generosity, and hard work.

Born on February 28, 1962, in Roswell, New Mexico, Rusty’s life was marked by his love for Christ and his love for family and friends.

Rusty’s legacy lives on through the people he cherished:

Rebecca Hodnett Smallwood, his wife, partner, and love of his life, who he married on June 9, 1984, and this June would have marked their 40th anniversary—a milestone they eagerly anticipated.

Trevor Smallwood, his son, carries forward Rusty’s spirit of hard work and love for people, but mostly his wife, Melissa, and daughter, Natalie.

Kaylin Mayers (and husband Travis Mayers), his daughter, whose heart reflects her daddy’s kindness and generosity.

Natalie Smallwood, his granddaughter, a testament to the love he poured into the next generation.

Sheran Martin (and husband William Martin), his sister, with whom he shared countless memories and laughter.

Jack Smallwood (and wife, KC Smallwood), his brother, bound by blood and a shared love for family.

Judith and Larry Hodnett, his mother and father-in-law, and Jo Hodnett and Ronnie Smitherman, his sister- and brother-in-law, an extension of the circle of family he adored.

Numerous nieces and nephews who were touched by his warmth and wisdom.

Preceding him in death was his son, Travis Smallwood, mother, Jackanette (Jackie) Smallwood, and his father, Barnabus (Joe) Smallwood.

His upbringing on the farm, where his father and grandfather imparted the art of fixing and driving anything that would “go, shaped Rusty’s character. He had a passion for working with his hands, whether meticulously crafting new woodworking projects, fixing something old and broken, or working on his cherished 1967 Chevy pickup, affectionately known as “Ole Red.” His garage still smells of sawdust and dreams. It was his happy place where he loved tinkering on whatever the project was that day. But Rusty’s true legacy extended beyond the garage. He was the go-to guy who could build and fix anything. Friends and neighbors sought his advice, knowing that he’d drop everything to help.

Hot rods, old pickups, and driving anything fast thrilled him, whether on four wheels or two, but his heart belonged to his family. Rusty’s commitment to them knew no bounds; they were his world, and he was theirs.

His faith led him to serve as a deacon at First Baptist Church in Farwell, Texas. He also taught Royal Ambassadors there and guided youth, leaving an indelible mark on young lives.

From 1989 to 1990, he worked the land of his own farm. Later, at Kelly Green Seeds in Farwell, Texas, from 1990 to 2002, Jerry Monk mentored him in the intricate world of seeds. From 2002 to 2016, Rusty contributed to the asphalt industry, leaving his mark on the roads we all travel.

In 2016, Rusty continued his work in the seed industry at Warner Seeds in Hereford, Texas. His dedication extended beyond the professional realm—he served as a Board member of the Texas Seed Trade Association.

Rusty earned an MBA at Wayland Baptist University in 2010, further enriching his knowledge and commitment to excellence.

Rusty’s circle of family and friends was vast, and he loved and cherished each one. Notably, he had no enemies; his kindness and authenticity endeared him to all who crossed his path. His legacy is etched in the hearts of those who knew him—a man who lived with purpose, loved without reservation, and left behind a trail of kindness for others to follow. May his memory continue to inspire us all.