James Philip Wood

To the Wood family and the Tara High family,

I was also shocked when I saw the Website. I was out sick that week; I missed the paper; I missed the news when they heard at work initially; and I even missed putting 2 and 2 together when I heard talk about the chemistry opening at Tara. I am so sorry for your loss. Our loss.

Jim was one of those wonderful teachers at Tara who had such a positive impact on my son that not only will my son never forget him, but I will...

What a shock to go to Tara's website and see that such a wonderful man had passed away. I was fortunate to work with him for 3 years (1999-2002). He always had a joke or a great anecdote to share. He will be greatly missed.

Dearest Marylyn,Allison and Leah-You are in my heart and prayers. My heart was just broken when I read "Doc's" obituary and saw his picture in Saturday's Advocate;also finding out I could not be with you for his memorial service. I just could not believe it. "Doc" was a wonderful friend for many years. Our friendship was "rocketed" into a new dimension when he started teaching at Tara. I was just amazed at "Doc's" dedication to teaching and "his" kids. I had always known of his love for all...

To the Wood family,
I had the pleasure of working with Mr.Wood for six years (97-03) at Tara High. He had a great sense of humor. We talked sports (Brett Favre-Packers) and hunting frequently. He made a tremendous impact on the students and will be missed. I extend my sympathy and prayers to you.

Dear Mr. Woods,
I can't even explain how much you will be missed here at Tara. I miss walking on the East Side seeing you outside of your classroom telling kids "Hey, get off that wall and go to class!" Even though I was not one of your students, we had many great conversations together. You were andwill always be one of my favorite people at Tara. I Will Never Forget You.

Love Always,
Kiantae M. Oakley

Mr. Wood was unlike any other teacher i've ever had because he truly had a heart for his students. Everyday,in his class, regardless of the fact that i may have been sleeping, Mr. Wood was always there with a word of encouragement and/or a funny story. To have been able to be a part of his everyday life is a blessing within itself and, for that, i am truly thankful. No matter who may come in to teach our Chemistry class, i will always remain a part of Mr. Wood's 7th hour Chemistry class.

Dear Marylyn, Ally & Leah:
I cannot begin to tell you how very sad I am for your loss. During our family get-togethers, you knew the party had started when Jim walked in. He had such a big and wonderful personality and I don't know that he ever met a stranger; he made you feel like you'd always known him. I know he'll be missed by all. All our love - Vicki, Billy and Kate Born

The sorrow I feel can not be expressed with words. Plain and simple, Mr. Wood was my friend. He looked out for me, made me laugh, made me aware, and encouraged me to question. He always gave more than was expected - to our school, to our students, to his friends, to his family; he would be proud today to see how many lives he successfully, and many times unknowingly, touched. I will miss that goodhearted, ole Mississippi boy. I imagine he’s in the process of catching the big one right now....