Dr. James Donald Smallwood, 86

December 13, 2025

Dr. James D. “Jim” Smallwood, 86, of Leola, passed away suddenly on December 13, 2025, at Lancaster General Hospital. Born in Carlisle, he was the son of the late Harold Leo Smallwood and Janice Ellen (Miller) Fink. He was married 61 years to his beloved wife Mary Ellen (McMahon) Smallwood.

Jim was a graduate of Biglerville High School and went on to obtain a Doctorate in dental surgery from the University of Pennsylvania Dental School, owning and operating his own practice for 56 years, retiring in December of 2020. He also served his country honorably in the US Air Force from 1964-1966. After retirement, Jim and Mary Ellen enjoyed extensive travel over the US and worldwide. He was passionate about golfing, earning the title of County Champ in 1991, and was a member of the Lancaster Country Club. Jim was a member of the local, state, and national Dental Associations, and previously served as president of the Lancaster County Dental Association. In his free time, you could often find Jim fishing, kayaking, coaching little league for Township, and collecting Lionell trains.

In addition to his wife, Jim is survived by 2 sons, John David Smallwood (Jessica) and Douglas Michael Smallwood, and 2 grandchildren, Elliott and Owen Smallwood. He was predeceased by his son, James Donald Smallwood, Jr. in May of 2025.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 11 AM at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 601 E Delp Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601. The family will receive guests beginning at 10 AM. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions in Jim’s name to St. John Neumann Catholic School, or Off The Streets, https://otslancaster.org/.