Deion Lincoln

Smallwood

Sunrise: September 13, 1996
Sunset: June 7, 2025

With deep sorrow and abiding love, we announce the passing of Deion Lincoln Smallwood, who was called to eternal rest on June 7, 2025. Born on September 13, 1996, in Richmond, Virginia, Deion was a cherished son, grandson, brother, uncle and friend whose spirit touched all who knew him.

Deion was a man of warmth, kindness and creativity. His radiant smile could light up any room and his deep love for his family was evident in everything he did. He carried a joyful presence, always willing to share a laugh, a helping hand or a song from the heart.

A gifted musician, Deion's passion for music opened doors that allowed him to travel and connect with incredible artists from all walks of life. Through his talent, he not only inspired others but also created lifelong memories and friendships.

Deion leaves behind a loving family who will carry his memory in their hearts forever. Surviving are his devoted parents, Daisy Smallwood and Dow Smallwood (Nana); his beloved Grandma Myrtle; siblings, Dain (Iynna), Clarence (Lois), Natasha, Dale, Ashley, Janae, Desirea, Daliah and Marcia; adopted siblings, Daniel, Ernest, Louisa and Priscilla; a host of aunts, uncles, adoring nieces and nephews, Daija, Darius, De'Nyla, Dale Jr., Dash, TJ, Kayla and Marsai; cousins and close friends who loved him dearly.

Remains rest at Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd. where viewing will be held from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, 2025. Funeral services will be held 12 noon Thursday, June 26 at Liberation Church, 5200 Midlothian Turnpike. Interment private.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find peace in knowing that Deion's melody lives on—in the love he gave, the music he created and the memories he leaves behind. His life was a beautiful song and we will carry his tune with us always.

Loving Memories from Family

From Dow:

Backstreet Boys: "I never wanna hear you say, I want it that way."

"You can't walk miles, you run laps, I jog with stamina" – his lyrics from Rolie Polie Olie

From Dain:

Deion's name is associated with qualities like exuberance, passion and a connection to the divine.

My parents let me name him Deion. He was named after Deion Sanders. My first memory of Deion is when Ashley, Desirea and I went to the hospital to see him when he was born. He was obviously pretty light skinned after just being born. Desirea being so inquisitive blurts out "why is he white?" Laughter and joy filled the room. So without even trying from his first moment Deion filled his family with laughter and joy. I remember him always being creative. He was always an artist in one shape or fashion. When he was younger he used to draw characters from the Anime Dragon Ball Z. That was one of our favorite things to watch together. Later in his life he turned that artistry to music.

From Ashley:

One of my favorite memories shared with Deion is how Mommy would take us to Three Lakes Park and we'd go to Long John Silver's for dinner afterwards. Long John Silver's had a bell by the door that you would ring before leaving. Desirea, Deion and I would literally race and fight over who would ring that bell first.

There are woods just down the street from our house growing up. There was a trail that took us all the way up to Laburnum Elementary School. The woods were our spot. Desirea, Deion and I would have a blast roaming through the woods, jumping in the little reservoir that was there. Come to think about it, that was nowhere near sanitary either, lol. We had some great times. In those woods.

The song Shake Your Booty was Deion's number one hit! Let's not forget how he used to ask for something to drink—he literally never asked, he would smack his lips and say ahhhh, as if he took a hard cold sip. It reminds me of Boogie (Darius) now, how he goes to the water machine with his cup like he knows what he is doing.

Oh and let's not forget—it's not called Sunny Delight, it's called Sunny DD.

"I swear I came a long way

And I still got places to go

I'm having fun, wish I could stay

But I just need some time to grow" – also from Rolie Polie Olie

From Desirea:

Him and Mommy always told each other "I love you, to infinity and beyond."

He traveled to many places around the world, met many celebs, was a musical genius, loved to laugh and really lived a life that people only dream of.

Nicknames included Lord Linco, Loveybone, and D Money with the Honeys (childhood nickname).

From Daliah:

"It's only heaven when I die because my soul is sacred"- from Deion's song 27.