Othar Lee ''Woody'' Wood

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Othar Lee “Woody” Wood Obituary
ROCKY MOUNT – Othar Lee “Woody” Wood, age 91, passed away on Saturday, March 2, 2024. He was born in Cumberland County, NC on February 7, 1933. He was preceded in death by four of his sisters; and his daughter Jennifer Wood Sandvin.

Woody, a man of unwavering faith, served as an Usher and a Deacon at Memorial Baptist Church for over 35 remarkable years. His soul resonated with the harmonious melodies of Gospel and Country music, and he proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. Woody’s remarkable life is a testament to his unwavering faith, musical fervor, and selfless dedication to his community.

In addition to his musical pursuits, Woody was the lead singer in his band called the Buckaroos. His captivating voice and love for music brought joy to all who had the pleasure of listening. With sheer determination and boundless enthusiasm, he played a pivotal role in establishing the little league Cougar Cubs Football and Cheerleading, transforming a mere concept into a thriving reality. Moreover, Woody graciously shared his wealth of knowledge and experience as a coach at South West Edgecombe, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless aspiring young people. While Woody’s profession involved traversing the open roads as a truck driver, he possessed a remarkable ability to find the silver lining in every situation. Embracing an optimistic outlook, he often remarked, “Will see ya next week, the Lord willing and the creek don’t rise,” drawing inspiration from the words of the legendary Hank Williams Sr., whose music resonated deeply within Woody’s heart. Woody’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, musical fervor, selfless dedication, and patriotic service. His spirit will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to cross paths with this extraordinary individual.

Woody is survived by his wife of 56 years, Gayle Booth Wood; his sons, Michael “Mike Dewayne Wood and Robert “Robbie” Lyle Burns; his daughters, Michele Nichols and husband, Tony, Rhonda Souther and husband, William, and Lisa Counts and husband, Donnie; his 16 grandchildren; his 15 great-grandchildren; his twin-sister, Neida Gunn; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Woody’s life will be held on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Pastor Tony Russ officiating. An Entombment will follow the service at Rocky Mount Memorial Park Chapel of Memories Mausoleum. Visitation with the family will be from 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM prior to the service in the Atrium of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made in Woody’s memory to Memorial Baptist Church, 5399 Old Wilson Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27801.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Othar, please visit our floral store.