Mrs. Marion Small

Obituary For Mrs. Marion Small

On March 14, 2026 Marion E. Small peacefully fell asleep in death at the Meridian Center in High Point, N.C. She was born on Oct. 4, 1933 to the late James H. and Pearlie M. Banks Sr. who preceded her in death.

Marion was raised in a very religious household. Marion attended and joined White Oak Spring Baptist Church at an early age, she was also a member of the church choir. Marion received her education and graduated from Hyden High School in Franklin, VA… where she also played basketball along with two of her sisters.

Marion was married to the late William Small who preceded her in death. There were no children born from that union. In 1963, Marion moved to New York City, NY. It was there that she made her home. She attended St. John Baptist Church and became a member in Oct. 1975 and served on the Adult Usher Board, the Hospitality Committee, the Missionary Board and also a member of the church choir.

Marion worked at Pride Laundry in Flushing, New York, where she retired and transitioned to working for the City of New York until she retired in 2014. Due to health issues Marion decided to move closer to her children in North Carolina in 2016.

Marion also joined First Emmanuel Baptist Church that same year and made it her church home. She was also one of the Mothers of the church.

Marion had nine brothers and sisters who preceded her in death: James H. Banks, Carlandus M. Banks, Timothy A. Banks, Melvin K. Banks, Cary R. Banks, Bessie V. Banks, Rosetta Faircloth, Fletcher O. Artis, and Gerline Biggs.

Marion leaves to cherish her memory, two children, Wayne L. Small (Thelma) of Gaston, NC, Andrea M. Small of Archdale, NC.; three grandchildren, Wayne R. Small of Portsmouth, VA., Ashley J. Small, of Thomasville, NC., Ramonte Bryant of Archdale, NC; two great grandchildren, Jeremiah Taylor, Leona Small; one sister, Theresa Parker of Franklin, VA; two sisters- in- law, Earlene Banks of Suffolk, VA., Ella Banks of Franklin, VA., and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Marion always had a smile on her face and didn’t mind telling you what was on her mind. Marion had a special saying to everyone especially her children, that is, “be blessed and be a blessing”.

Funeral service will be held, Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Phillips Funeral Service Chapel. The family will receive friends at the chapel from 10:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Mrs. Small may be viewed at Phillips Funeral Service Chapel on Friday, March 27, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.

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