Ernest Owen Wood, Sr.

August 19, 2021

Ernest Owen Wood, Sr.
July 15, 1939 – August 17, 2021

Owen was born July 15, 1939 in Copeland, Alabama and passed Tuesday, August 17, 2021 at Thomas Hospital in Fairhope, Alabama after a lengthy illness. Born in Washington County, Owen later moved to Prichard in 1955, and graduated from Vigor High School with the Class of 1957. At 15 years of age, Owen wished to serve his country and joined the Alabama Army National Guard. Upon high school graduation, he transferred to the United States Navy, then graduated from the Navy Boot Camp at Great Lakes, Michigan. Owen served with distinction aboard the aircraft carrier USS Antietam and was honorably discharged from service in 1962. He then resided in Prichard, Alabama where he served his community as a member of the Civitan Club and was actively involved in the Mobile County political arena. He served as chairman of the Prichard Water and Sewer Board, and was a member of the Pentalpha Lodge #804 F&AM and the 32 Degree Scottish Rite Mason Valley of Mobile. He worked for ALCOA, where he retired after 25 years and began operating a family farm in the cattle and hay business within the community of Canoe, Alabama. He attended Canoe United Methodist Church, and was affectionately known as the “unofficial mayor” of Canoe. Owen was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing, and enjoyed his morning coffee with friends and strangers at Baker’s Store telling stories of his adventures. His greatest pride and joy was his grandchildren and beloved family. He is preceded in death by his parents, O.D. and Erna Wood, and his brothers, James and Edsel Wood. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Ronda Jalis Wood; sons, Ernie (Regina) Wood and Vance (Traci) Wood; and grandchildren Michael, Rachel, and McKinley “Mac” Wood. The family would like to give a special thank you to the medical staff on 4th Floor South at Thomas Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion.

A graveside service will be held at Canoe United Methodist Cemetery in Robinsonville, AL on Sunday, August 22nd at 2:00pm for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the United Methodist Children’s Home or a children’s charity of choice.

Pallbearers: Dennis Stanton, Charles Stanton, Tommy Young, Blake Young, Thomas Guy, Kelby Amos

Honorary Pallbearers: Jessie Richardson, Brian Wood, Bubba Wood, David Amos, Charles Agee.

The family request facial mask be worn and social distancing due to the current healthcare crisis.

Comments

Comments are closed.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Obituaries