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Remembering Br. James Small, SJ (1922–2026)
With deep gratitude and sorrow, Loyola Academy mourns the passing of Br. James Small, SJ, whose remarkable life of faith, creativity, and service has left an indelible mark on generations of Ramblers.
A former Chicago Police Officer, Br. Small entered the Society of Jesus and began his ministry at Loyola Academy in 1969 as a carpenter. Over the decades, his hands and heart shaped more than the physical spaces of the Academy—he helped form the soul of the Loyola community.
A gifted painter and teacher, Br. Small used his artistic talents to transform lives. His paintings—beloved fixtures of the Ramble and other fundraising events—raised over one million dollars for tuition assistance, helping to open Loyola’s doors to countless students. His art has found homes across the country and around the world, each piece carrying his signature blend of skill, humility, and generosity.
Br. Small also shared his gifts through Saturday art classes, welcoming students of all ages and backgrounds to discover beauty, patience, and prayer in the creative process. He inspired others not only to see, but to see God in all things.
His story reached a wider audience through an interview with Mike Leonard '65 that aired on the Today Show on January 15, 1998, offering a glimpse into the humility, joy, and quiet purpose that defined his life. We invite you to view the video here.
In 2022, Br. Small celebrated his 100th birthday, a milestone recognized by the Jesuits and by the many who cherished his enduring presence and quiet joy. His legacy is one of service through simplicity, a life spent making "small things" into moments of grace.
May Br. Small rest in eternal peace.
Ad majorem Dei gloriam—For the Greater Glory of God.
A brief video, A Walk Down the Hall with Br. James Small, offers a glimpse into his life and artistic spirit; we invite you to view it here.
Read more about Br. Small's extraordinary life in Jesuits Magazine: A Jesuit's Journey: Br. James Small, SJ.
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A gifted painter and teacher, Br. Small used his artistic talents to transform lives. His paintings—beloved fixtures of the Ramble and other fundraising events—raised over one million dollars for tuition assistance, helping to open Loyola’s doors to countless students. His art has found homes across the country and around the world, each piece carrying his signature blend of skill, humility, and generosity.
Br. Small also shared his gifts through Saturday art classes, welcoming students of all ages and backgrounds to discover beauty, patience, and prayer in the creative process. He inspired others not only to see, but to see God in all things.
His story reached a wider audience through an interview with Mike Leonard '65 that aired on the Today Show on January 15, 1998, offering a glimpse into the humility, joy, and quiet purpose that defined his life. We invite you to view the video here.
In 2022, Br. Small celebrated his 100th birthday, a milestone recognized by the Jesuits and by the many who cherished his enduring presence and quiet joy. His legacy is one of service through simplicity, a life spent making "small things" into moments of grace.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 29, at 4:00 p.m. at Colombiere Center in Clarkston, Michigan, with a vigil service at 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will take place on Monday, March 30, at 10:30 a.m., also at Colombiere Center. For those who are unable to attend in person, the Funeral Mass will be livestreamed in the Loyola Academy Chapel and may also be viewed online through Colombiere Center's YouTube channel. Please note: All times listed are Eastern Time.
May Br. Small rest in eternal peace.
Ad majorem Dei gloriam—For the Greater Glory of God.
A brief video, A Walk Down the Hall with Br. James Small, offers a glimpse into his life and artistic spirit; we invite you to view it here.
Read more about Br. Small's extraordinary life in Jesuits Magazine: A Jesuit's Journey: Br. James Small, SJ.
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Brother Small Today Show story
Br. James Small Today Show By Mike Leonard '65
January 15, 1998
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