Jonathan B Small

Jonathan Brian Small (72) of New Castle, Delaware, entered his heavenly home on Sunday, May 12, 2024, while at ChristianaCare Hospital in Wilmington, Delaware. Jon was born on October 7, 1951, to Esther and Benjamin Small in Buffalo, New York. Although a graduate of the University of Buffalo with a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology, his career took a different path. Jon was a dreamer – a true entrepreneur at heart – with a sharp mind for business. He was a very successful Subway franchisee owner, having operated stores in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Buffalo, NY, and New Castle, DE. Other business ventures included owning a laundromat in Delaware and, until recently, he operated an airport and local transportation service. Jon was an extremely dedicated business owner who worked tirelessly seven days a week for over thirty years. Jon was also an avid fan of Philadelphia Sports Talk (WIP-FM radio) and would faithfully record the daily programs and listen to the banter on his long walks with Tug. Jon is survived by his brother – Elliott Small (Tammy); his loving companion of many years – Gina Wayman; and her sister – Sheri Tagatac. Jon is also survived by countless friends, many of which are cherished lifelong, childhood friends. Last, but certainly not least, Jon leaves behind his beloved best friend – Tug, Jr. Tug is Jon’s loyal, devoted, and sweet-natured basset hound. Jon, however, was just as loyal and devoted to Tug as the two spent countless hours together on excursions throughout the county (it was so important to Jon that he kept life “interesting” for Tug as well). Jon often told many that Tug ate better than he did – no truer words have been spoken. Not only did Jon cook for Tug, but he served everyday a multicourse meal (London broil, roast pork loin, ham, chicken, and beef) followed by dessert (vanilla ice cream). Tug savored his ice cream as Jon held back his ears to keep the experience as tidy as possible. Jon was a man of integrity, charismatic, loyal to the core, and always there for his friends. He was a compassionate, endearing and gentle man, and he enriched the lives of those around him with his kind heart and beautiful smile – not to mention his quick wit and sense of humor. Life is better for having known this precious and sweet soul, and he will be immensely missed by those who knew him. A graveside service will be held at Elmlawn Memorial Park in Buffalo, NY on June 8, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. For those who desire to honor Jon’s life, donations may be made to Tri-State Basset Hound Rescue, P.O. Box 471, Deepwater, NJ 08023 or tristatebassets.org. To send an online condolence please visit www.stranofeeley.com.

Jonathan B Small

October 7, 1951 - May 12, 2024

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