Henry L. Smith

Henry LaVerne “Tiny” Smith, a beloved son, husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin, friend, and servant to others. His generous spirit, loving heart, and unforgettable sense of humor touched the lives of everyone who knew him.

Henry LaVerne “Tiny” Smith was born on August 24, 1956, to Rosetta Smith-Garnett and Mr. Arthur. He was raised in Wilmington, Delaware by Ms. Helen, and was a proud graduate of P.S. DuPont High School. After high school, Henry entered the United States Army and served for two years before receiving an honorable discharge. Later in life, he relocated to Vineland, New Jersey, where he lived with his beloved grandmothers, Rosa Mae Brown and Rose Viola Pyle.

During that season of his life, Henry received salvation and became a member of Bethel Pentecostal Church in Wilmington, Delaware. He faithfully commuted each week with his grandmothers to attend church and continue growing in his faith.

Henry was united in marriage to BettyAnn; they shared more than forty years of friendship before she predeceased him last year. Henry retired from Delaware Park Casino, where he worked as a security guard. He took great pride in serving and helping people throughout his career.

Life was always a spiritual journey for Henry. His main goal was to always be the best man and father. He was one of the best football players in Wilmington, DE. He loved singing, shooting pool, bike riding, and playing Acey Ducey.

As of August 2026, Henry proudly celebrated 32 years of sobriety through Narcotics Anonymous, supported by his sponsor Christopher Miller and his sobriety brothers. His commitment to recovery became a meaningful part of his life and legacy. He loved sponsoring, supporting, leading, and teaching his fellow brothers and sisters in sobriety.

In his younger years, Henry was an avid basketball player. He was also a die-hard fan of the San Francisco 49ers, and during the seventies he rocked the biggest Afro anyone had ever seen. Henry was one of the favorite uncles anyone could ever imagine, and his love, laughter, and unforgettable personality brought joy to his family and friends.

Henry was predeceased by his parents, Rosetta Smith-Garnett and Mr. Arthur; his grandmothers, Rosa Mae Brown and Rose Viola Pyle; sisters, Lorena M. Smith, Marilyn F. Smith-Hill, and Sheila D. Smith-Lawrence; and his brother, James L. Smith.

Henry leaves to cherish his memory his son, Jay-Mon Tucker of Texas; brother, George Smith (Cassandra), of New Jersey; brother, William D. T. Smith of Delaware; sister, Carman P. Daniels of South Carolina; brother-in-law, Joseph Hill of New Jersey, aunt, Marie R. Butler of Florida; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends from the East Coast to the West Coast.