James Bryan Smallwood, retired electrician

James Bryan Smallwood, 77, of Millsboro, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2018. He had just been diagnosed with metastatic small cell lung cancer less than three weeks prior.

Jim was born Nov. 2, 1940, to Elmer and Elsie (Bryan) Smallwood in Wilmington. He was married to his best friend and love of his life, Phyllis (Boulden) Smallwood Oct. 20, 1961.

Jim graduated from Henry C. Conrad High School in 1958. He then completed his apprenticeship with the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for the Electrical Industry in 1966. Prior to beginning his career with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 313, Jim was proud to have served in the Coast Guard Reserve.

Jim was a Mason with Delaware Lodge #37 A.F. & A.M. Masonic Lodge for 36 years. He served as worshipful master in 1988 and 1990. He was a member of the Dagsboro Volunteer Fire Company for many years, and served some time as the rescue captain. Although he loved serving both, he found traveling was his passion. He and Phyllis ended up selling their home and traveling full time for over 20 years in their motorhome, visiting the original 48 states more than once, with Utah being his favorite.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Phyllis Elaine (Boulden) Smallwood; his daughters, Keri Bradford of Millsboro and Phyllis Saunders of Millsboro; his grandchildren, Robert Bradford Jr. of Seaford, Bryan Jones and Maggie (White) of Millsboro, and Kelly Bradford and Mike (Campbell) of Dagsboro; his brothers, "the twins," William (Janice) Smallwood and Charles (Delores) Smallwood; his fur babies Taco and Buddy; and many nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Elsie (Bryan) Smallwood; brother Ronald Smallwood; and son-in-law William James "Jimmy" Saunders.

A Celebration of Life will take place for family and friends Saturday, Jan. 13, from 4 to 7 p.m., at Irish Eyes, 213 Anglers Road, Lewes.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.

Electronic condolences via www.watsonfh.com