ALMA — Mrs. Iona Lee Small, 89, passed away peacefully Friday evening, October 3, 2025, at Twin Oaks Convalescence Center in Alma after an extended illness.
Born March 11, 1936, in Brantley County, Mrs. Small was the daughter of the late Ellis Life and Lillie Screven Life. She graduated from cosmetology school and worked as a beautician for many years.
Mrs. Small was widely known and loved throughout the community as the “Avon Lady,” having proudly worked for Avon for over 30 years. A dedicated businesswoman, she was known not only for her work ethic, but also for her deep love for her family and community.
Mrs. Small dedicated her life as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses January 12, 1972, and in September 1998 she began serving as a regular Bible minister. Her unwavering faith and commitment to her ministry were a central part of her life. Mrs. Small served her congregation and neighbors with compassion and humility.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Isaac Small; and three of her children, Sylvester Small, Patricia Ann Small and Isaac Leon Small.
Mrs. Small leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory, children, Althoria Camilla Gordon (Randy) of Waycross, Ivory Tenia Lee (Kenneth) of South Carolina, Warren Sparren Small of Waycross, Iona Virginia Weston (Anthony) of Waycross and Leatrice Yvonne Heidelberg (Michael) of Lehigh Acres, Fla.; grandchildren, Travis Gordon, Jalisia Heidelberg, Jade V. Heidelberg, Michael S. Heidelberg, Isaiah I. Heidelberg, Ivan J. Daniels (Leah), Deon T. Small, Kenneth Lee, Jr., Antwonette M. Weston, Elizabeth C. Weston, Olivia H. Weston and Zoie S. Weston; four greatgrandchildren; a sister, Bertie Lou White of St. Simons Island; and a host of nieces, nephews and extended family members.
A memorial service celebrating her life will be held Saturday, October 11, 2025 at 1 p.m., at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m. Saturday at Music Funeral Home.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Twin Oaks Convalescence Center for the compassionate care provided to their mother, and to their congregation and friends for the outpouring of love through prayers, cards, meals, phone calls, and visits during this time of sorrow.
Sympathy may be expressed by posting to her tribute wall at www.musicfuneralhome. com.
