Kelli Shannon Smallwood, beloved sister, daughter, mother, and grandmother, passed away on Thursday, May 1, 2025, after a brief illness. Kelli was born in Shreveport, Louisiana on December 14, 1958, and grew up in Belzoni. After graduating from Humphreys Academy, she attended and graduated from Belhaven College.

While Kelli faced challenges earlier in her life, she transformed her story into one of redemption and hope. She found great joy in attending Embrace Church in Forest where she was a devoted member. Kelli had a huge heart and wanted to help others in any way she could. She also carried on her father's legacy with her profound love for all animals. Kelli will be deeply missed by all who loved her.

Kelli was preceded in death by her father, Garner Shannon, Jr. and her husband, Royce Smallwood. She is survived by her mother, Pat Layton of Lithia, Florida; her sons, Cade Usry of Pelahatchie and Justin Smallwood of Inverness; her sisters, Mary Fran Burton of New Braunfels, Texas, Amy DeLong of Madison, and Julie Lang of Brandon; her stepmother, Toni Shannon of Belzoni; and her grandchildren, Zoe Usry of Brandon, Libby Usry of Vicksburg, and Myles Smallwood of Inverness.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kelli's name to Embrace Church, 1030 Anderson Street, Forest, MS 39074 or Belzoni Cemetery Association, 506 Sharkey Street, Belzoni, MS 39038.

A graveside service will be held at the Belzoni Cemetery on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Burton Funeral Home of Indianola has been entrusted with the arrangements.