Brett Smalley

Brett Smalley, 63, went home to be with the Lord Friday, September 11, 2026.  He will now be rejoining with his family and friends in the presence of his true love, Jesus Christ. 

Brett worked as a machinist at Rotary Ram. His love for gardening led him and his wife in beginning and operating Fertile Ground Organic and Hydroponic Store. There he taught classes and growing hydroponically in the shop. His expertise continued to follow him at every home he and his wife, for 26 years, lived in.  He then worked for the State of Missouri in maintenance and as a plumber for 12 years. Brett passed away from a short illness peacefully surrounded by his beloved family.

Brett was born on August 22, 1963, in Litchfield, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his mother, Janet (Hurst) Hanks, his paternal grandparents, Bill and Dolly Smalley, and maternal grandparents Oscar and Marie Hurst, along with his Uncle Jim Jouett and cousin Mark Ellerbeck. He leaves behind his wife and best friend, Marilyn Smalley, his father John Smalley, (significant other Stacy Williams-Vinson), brother Lynn Smalley and his sisters, Rhonda Whitworth and Jonna Smalley, along with his special Aunts, Barb (Mark) Thomas and Bernice Jouett, with many cousins, nieces, great nieces, nephews and great nephews. His pride and joy pets (AKA his posse), Elly and Ollie, whom he loved dearly and they the same.

Brett attended Enjoy Church, Alton Campus and was very active in serving in the Prayer Ministry. He would carry a small notebook and write down every prayer request made so he could continue to pray through the week for that request. His faith was one of his greatest assets.

Brett had many accomplishments in his life but his work ethic might have shown the most. Whenever his name was mentioned regarding to the places he worked, it was always said he was the hardest worker they had.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, Oct. 10 at Enjoy Church, 3303 Homer Adams Parkway in Alton, with visiting time from 11 a.m. until services begin at 12 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Enjoy Church.

Cremation services entrusted to Paynic Home for Funerals, with online condolences and guestbook available at www.paynicfh.com.