Dennis D. Small

Dennis Dean Small, age 89, passed away peacefully on Nov. 18, 2022 in Punta Gorda, Florida, after a brief illness.

He is the son of Lucy Dean Small and Phillip Small.

He leaves behind his wife of 40 years, Anne Stewart Small, 5 children, Jennifer Small, Nancy Small, David Small, Tammy Kent, and Lynn Murphy, 3 grandchildren, Noah Small, Frances Small, and Shane Kent, one brother Michael Small. He was preceded in death by one sister, Josephine Dahl.

Dennis was born in Winchester, Va. and grew up in Martinsburg, W.Va. He attended WVU for one year, then transferred to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, from which he graduated with an engineering degree in 1957.

After serving in the Merchant Marines, he designed ships in Washington, D.C. In 1971, he started a new business, Smalls Automotive, in Martinsburg. He retired in 1995.

Dennis was a past member of the Martinsburg Rotary Club and an honorary member of the Harpers Ferry Cooking Club. Along with his wife, Anne, he supported many animal rescue organizations and endeavors throughout their marriage. His hobbies included gardening, fishing, boating, traveling overseas, antiquing, attending auctions and spending winters in Florida. He and Anne resided on their farm, Stonebrake Farm, for over 30 years, where they enjoyed many social gatherings, gardening, and spending time with their rescue cats and dogs.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Dennis will be held at Trinity Episcopal Church in Shepherdstown, WV on Saturday, May 20, 2023 at 11 a.m. with a reception to follow.

Memorial donations may be made to Briggs Animal Adoption Center, P.O. Box 1023, Charles Town, WV 25414-1023 or online at www.baacs.org.