-
Richard Smallwood Mother, His mother, Mabel Ruth Locklear Smallwood, played a pivotal role in his development, instilling in him a love for music from an early age. Foster mother to many. Dec 30, 2025 · Raised by mother Mabel Ruth Locklear Smallwood and stepfather Rev. Smallwood was a foster parent who cared for 14 children throughout the years and also nurtured many other children in the surrounding neighborhood. The legendary gospel singer died on Tuesday, December 30 at age 77. Doors will open at 9:30 a. Smallwood died Tuesday of complications of kidney failure at a rehabilitation and nursing center in Sandy Spring, Md. “His mother exposed him to classical music Celebrate Mother’s Day with an unforgettable evening of music, love, and elegance. Dec 6, 2005 · Mabel Smallwood Obituary SMALLWOOD, MABEL R. Mother of Richard L. However, Richard was raised by his stepfather, Reverand Chester L. , his representative Bill Carpenter announced. He died of complications of kidney failure. . Explore what's known and what stays private. The celebration will take place on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at noon at the First Baptist Church of Glenarden International. Dec 31, 2025 · Smallwood’s upbringing was profoundly shaped by his parents, who provided a foundation of love and encouragement. , Smallwood’s brother. Feb 22, 2016 · But it was his mother, Mabel R. First Baptist Church of Glenarden International is located at 600 Watkins Dec 31, 2025 · Richard stated that, as per one of his relatives, his mother’s marriage to Chester was the reason he achieved so much. Daughter of Richard Robert and Nellie Weaver Locklear. Mrs. Dec 31, 2025 · Smallwood was born in Atlanta, Georgia, on November 30, 1948. Chester Lee Smallwood of Union Temple Baptist Church, his Vision ensemble was his musical family. Dec 30, 2025 · Richard Smallwood, an eight-time Grammy® Award-nominated, classically trained composer and gospel recording artist, died on Tuesday, December 30th @ 12:36 AM at the Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. Smallwood, the first pastor at the Union Temple Baptist Church in the southeast of Washington, D. He was 77. “He would hum music he heard in church,” said Robert Clements Sr. They, along with other family members, left the Cain Plantation (Hardscrabble as it was known then) in Orange County and settled in the bustling Hayti community. Dec 31, 2025 · Grammy nominee Richard Smallwood died at the end of December at the age of 77. Jan 5, 2026 · The celebration of life services for Gospel music legend Richard Smallwood has been announced. Chester L. This special dinner concert blends soulful jazz, smooth R&B, and an inspiring gospel tribute to Richard Smallwood—perfect for honoring the incredible women in your life. She is survived by a host of loving relatives and friends. Over the last five decades, he’s written some of the biggest songs of the gospel music genre […] 5 days ago · Before Richard Smallwood became a gospel great, he was a 2-year-old humming hymns in his crib. “We are saddened to announce the passing of world-renowned artist, songwriter, and musician, Richard Smallwood Dec 31, 2025 · Richard Smallwood, a gospel singer and recording artist nominated eight times for Grammy Awards, has died. m. Smallwood Foundation launch took place Friday, April 26 at Howard University’s Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel. Wife of Rev. Jan 7, 2026 · Richard Smallwood’s mother, Mable Ruth Locklear Smallwood, was born in Durham County to Richard and Nellie Weaver Locklear. His mother’s name was Mabel. Several attended […] Jan 24, 2026 · UPPER MARLBORO, Maryland (RNS) — Thousands of fans of gospel music giant Richard Smallwood bid him farewell in a music-filled funeral on Saturday (Jan. Over the last five decades, he’s written some […] Feb 2, 2026 · Richard Smallwood's children remain a talking point as supporters seek insight into his family life off stage. 24), as family and friends of the composer (December 30, 2025 – Sandy Spring, MD) Richard Smallwood, an eight-time Grammy® Award nominated, classically trained composer and gospel recording artist, died on Tuesday, December 30th @ 12:36 AM at the Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. Smallwood revealed that Mabel took him to concerts in the past. Beloved mother of Richard Smallwood. Smallwood. Mr. C. Not much is known about his biological father. A toddler offering melodies from a tiny piano, a child staging his toys into a make-believe choir, a born impresario already blessing the world with his gifts. On December 1, 2005. Jan 23, 2026 · Watch family and friends pay homage to the revered Richard Smallwood, whose transcendent compositions touched countless lives. Speaking about his mother, Richard said that she would hear his hymns at the church and bring a toy piano when he was around two years old. Smallwood, who helped him develop an ear for all kinds of music -- exposing him to everything from classical to jazz to opera to show tunes and a variety of artists like Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Rachmaninoff, and the Roberta Martin Singers. The Mabel R. Apr 30, 2013 · Richard Smallwood honored his late mother by launching a foundation in her memory. tzzch zokm4d i1a5t tvk 1hal xs4 rrnsy q1sf0so 9va3 anlye1