Iona Lee Small

Mrs. Iona Lee Small, 89, passed away peacefully on Friday evening, October 3, 2025, at Twin Oaks Convalescence Center after an extended illness.

Born on March 11, 1936, in Brantley County, GA, she was the daughter of the late Ellis Life and Lillie Screven Life. Iona graduated from cosmetology school and worked as a beautician for many years. She was widely known and loved throughout the community as the "Avon Lady," having proudly worked for Avon for over 30 years. A dedicated businesswoman, Iona was known not only for her work ethic but also for her deep love for her family and community.

On January 12, 1972, Iona dedicated her life as one of Jehovah's Witnesses, 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, and she 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.

She leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory: Her 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, FL. Her 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. She is also survived by four great-grandchildren; one sister, Bertie Lou White of St. Simons Island, GA; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 11, 2025, 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.