Gregory Smalls

With heavy hearts, we celebrate the life and cherish the memory of Gregory "Greg" Smalls, whose kindness, generosity, and unforgettable spirit touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Greg was born in Newark, New Jersey, to the late Loretta Farrell. As the oldest of nine children, he naturally embraced the role of protector, mentor, and loving big brother. He attended Sister Clara Muhammad School and later Barringer High School, where he formed lifelong friendships and developed the strong work ethic that would guide him throughout his life. For 35 years, Greg proudly served the City of Newark as a dedicated employee in the Department of Sanitation. He took immense pride in his work and earned the respect and admiration of his coworkers and the community he faithfully served. A devoted member of Abyssinian Baptist Church, Greg found strength, peace, and purpose in his faith. He treasured the fellowship of his church family and lived his life guided by compassion, humility, and service to others. Greg shared a beautiful life with his beloved wife, Brenda, and together they enjoyed traveling and creating treasured memories. He found his greatest joy in spending time with family and friends, where his deep conversations, captivating stories, and infectious laughter brought people together. Known for his warm heart and generous spirit, Greg was the kind of person who would gladly give the shirt off his back to help someone in need. His welcoming personality, quick wit, unmistakable charm, and genuine love for people left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Greg was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Brenda Smalls; his mother, Loretta Farrell; his brother, Samad Farrell; and his sisters, Petite Smalls and Belinda Smalls. He leaves to cherish his precious memory his loving daughter, Christie Gilford; his beloved grandchildren, Christie and Taj; his brothers, Omar Farrell, Rahman Smalls, Rahcheim Farrell, and Mayum Farrell; his sister, Sharonda Smalls; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and all whose lives were enriched by knowing him. Though Greg is no longer with us in body, his love, wisdom, generosity, and laughter will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him. His legacy of kindness, strength, and compassion will endure through the family, friends, and community whose lives he touched. Rest peacefully, Greg. Your love will never be forgotten, your memory will forever be cherished, and your legacy will live on in our hearts for generations to come.