"Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. Forever in our hearts."

With profound sadness and unwavering love, we announce the passing of Jhardon Tyree Small, affectionately known as "J.T." and "Jay," who entered eternal rest on July 19, 2026, at the age of 26.

Born on June 26, 2000, in Kingston, Jamaica, Jhardon later made San Antonio, Texas, his home, where he built a life rooted in creativity, purpose, faith, and service to others.

Jhardon was a gifted designer whose passion for architecture became his profession. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and began his career as an Architectural Designer with PBK Architects, Inc. He approached every project with imagination, excellence, and a desire to make a lasting difference through his work.

Outside of his career, Jhardon was known for his many talents and joyful spirit. He loved fishing, drawing, singing, playing the keyboard, creating handcrafted rugs, and gaming. He had an infectious personality that could brighten any room. Whether he was dancing, joking with family and friends, or simply making others laugh, Jhardon had a special gift for bringing people together and making them feel loved.

His Christian faith was an important part of his life, and he believed in using his gifts to encourage others. Jhardon was a proud Men of Honor Alumni, served as a mentor with the ACE Mentoring Program, and was affiliated with both the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA). Through his leadership and encouragement, he inspired young people to pursue their dreams with confidence.

Above all else, Jhardon cherished his family. Some of his happiest moments were spent with the "4 Gran" grandchildren, creating memories filled with laughter, love, and dreams for the future. He often talked with his family about the businesses they hoped to build together, reflecting his entrepreneurial spirit and his desire to create opportunities for those he loved.

Jhardon leaves to cherish his precious memory his loving mother, Althea Audrey Jefferson; his father, Ray Andrew Small; his devoted stepfather, Johnnie Taylor Jefferson; his brothers, Adrian Gash, Ray Small Jr., and Josiah Small; his sisters, Tianna Small, Renee Small, and Sade Small; his grandparents, Sylvester Bernard and Audrey Bernard; his uncle, Kirk Bernard; his aunts, Patricia Bernard-Greaves, Latoya Bernard, Giovanna Bernard, and Jhaneel Francis (Bernard); along with a host of cousins, extended family members, dear friends, coworkers, mentors, and all whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Although Jhardon's earthly journey was far too short, his legacy of kindness, creativity, generosity, and unconditional love will continue to live on in the hearts of everyone he touched.

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."Revelation 21:4

Jhardon will forever be remembered for the light he carried into every room, the love he freely gave, and the hope he inspired in others.

Forever Loved. Forever Missed. Forever Remembered.

Acknowledgements

The family of Jhardon Tyree Small extends our sincere appreciation to everyone who has prayed for us, called, visited, sent flowers, cards, food, donations, and words of encouragement during the loss of our beloved Jhardon.

Your love, compassion, and unwavering support have carried us through one of the most difficult seasons of our lives. We are especially grateful to our family, friends, neighbors, church family, coworkers, and all who have surrounded us with kindness and prayer. Your support has reminded us that we do not walk this journey alone.

May God richly bless each of you for your generosity, compassion, and the love you have shown our family.

With love and gratitude,

The Jefferson, Bernard & Small Family

A visitation will be held on July 31, from 6:00 to 8:00pm at Harper-Talasek Funeral Home in Killeen. The funeral service will take place the following day, August 1, at 11:00am.