In Loving Memory of Phoebe Annette Small
Phoebe A Small
07/09/1948 - 04-04-2024
God called home a treasured angel, Phoebe Annette Harris-Small on April 4, 2024. She was the middle child of three, born in Seattle Washington on July 9, 1948, to the late Deacons James and Maxine Harris. Growing up in Seattle, she was a valued member of Mount Zion Baptist Church where her presence was felt through her active participation in the Chapel Choir, her dedicated service as a Youth Usher and involvement in the Baptist Youth Fellowship. She fondly remembered traveling to church youth conferences with other members and friends of Mount Zion.
Phoebe attended Madrona Elementary, Meany Junior High and was a proud Garfield High “Bulldog.” Upon receiving her high school diploma, she attended Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas where she met and married her soulmate, Joseph Small II. Joe and Phoebe settled in Seattle where they were blessed with two children, Nate, and Erin. Joe and Phoebe remained married for fifty-four years. Professionally she worked at Boeing and later excelled as a Mortgage Underwriter leaving her mark on esteemed institutions such as Dictators Mortgage in California and Seafirst Bank in Seattle.
Phoebe enjoyed people and touched the lives of many with her outgoing, engaging personality. Known for her vibrant spirit and infectious energy, she effortlessly lit up any gathering earning her the title of “the life of the party.” Her zest for life was palpable, and her laughter could fill a room with warmth and happiness. She found joy in the simple pleasures from engaging in lively card games to losing herself in the rhythm of music and dance. A favorite pastime was as a volunteer usher at the Concord Pavilion in California where her passions truly converged and were immersed in the melodies of diverse music concerts. Being an enthusiastic reader, in her spare time Phoebe often could be found engrossed in a world of books on her tablet. As well, she found delight in the world of soap operas, eagerly following the dramatic twists and turns of her favorite shows.
In addition to her recreational interests, Phoebe was also renowned for her culinary prowess. An excellent cook, she had a passion for collecting recipes, and delighted in creating delicious meals that brought people together around the table. Whether it was a hearty family dinner or a gathering with friends, her dishes were always prepared with care and skill, leaving lasting impressions on all who had the pleasure of tasting her creations. Phoebe’s devotion to her family was the cornerstone of her life. She treasured every phone call, facetime session, text message, and visits from her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She looked forward to her countless conversations with all of them.
God called His beloved Phoebe home to eternal rest two months after the passing of her husband, Joe. She leaves a remarkable legacy woven from the threads of unconditional love, joyful laughter, and steadfast compassion. While her absence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, the essence of her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift those whose lives she touched.
Phoebe was preceded in death by her loving husband Joe. She leaves to cherish her memory: son, Joseph Nathaniel Small III (Melissa); daughter, Erin Small; grandchildren, Nathaniel (Shelby), Kai, Joseph IV and Jayden; great-grandchildren, Sariyah and Nathaniel, Jr.; sisters, Jeri Harris and Debra Harris-Branham (Phil); nephew, Quinton Branham; her beloved in-laws from Florida, Olivia Young (Ralph), Sydney Small (Linda), Denise Wilson (Henry), Mike Small (Melonie) and Michelle Ellis (James); a host of nephews and nieces; many other loving relatives and longtime forever friends.
Funeral at Mt Zion Baptist Church April 27 2024 11am.
