John Phillip Small Jr., beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on Jan. 20, 2026, at Lynchburg Nursing Center. He was born on Oct. 8, 1949, to the late John Phillip Small Sr., and Julia Isabel Fox Small. John was a lifelong resident of Fayetteville, Tennessee, and a faithful member of First United Methodist Church.

A 1967 graduate of Central High School, John went on to earn his degree from the University of Tennessee before returning home to work for Small and Small Oil Company, a family business founded by his father in 1947. Through years of dedication and hard work, John eventually assumed leadership of the company, continuing its legacy in the community. He also served as a past president of the Tennessee Oil Marketers Association.

When not working, John found great enjoyment in tending to his cattle farm and spending time on the golf course. Above all else, he cherished his family and treasured the time spent with them, a devotion that remained at the heart of his life.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Vickie Allen Small; children, John Anthony (Tonya) Sack, Sondra (Robert) Luker, Christine (Boo) Bankston, and Phillip Small; and grandchildren, Julie Bankston, Carter Bankston, Isabella Luker, Colin Luker, Brittany Klatt, Madison Evans, and Jacob Miller. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his brother, James Small.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, at Higgins with the Rev. Tommy Vann officiating. Burial followed in Riverview Memorial Gardens.

Higgins Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of John Phillip Small Jr.