William Hood

William Kent "Bill" Hood, 75, of Amite, Louisiana, passed away on September 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on June 29, 1950, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Bill was a proud graduate of Amite High School, Class of 1968. He went on to attend Louisiana State University, where he was a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity, forming lifetime friendships.

In 1970, Bill began what would become an extraordinary and impactful career in the automotive industry. Through vision, determination, and an unwavering commitment to integrity, he grew Hood Automotive Group from a single dealership in Amite, Louisiana into a respected network of over 11 locations across the region. Known for treating both employees and customers like family, Bill built a legacy rooted in service, trust, and leadership.

Beyond his professional achievements, Bill was deeply committed to his community. He generously gave his time and leadership to a wide range of civic, business, and philanthropic organizations including, but not limited to, Kiwanis Club, Knights of Columbus and Louisiana Automobile Dealers Association. He also served on the boards of Hood Memorial Hospital, Entergy Louisiana and was the longest serving Director of First Guaranty Bank, with a remarkable 48 years of service.

Bill also lived life with a deep sense of joy and adventure. He was an avid traveler and loved boating, golfing, snow skiing, and hunting. Whether he was on the water, on the slopes, or traveling the world, he embraced each moment and shared it generously with those he loved.

Above all his many accomplishments, Bill's greatest joy in life was being a loving father and grandfather. Affectionately known as "Daddy Hood", he poured his heart into his family. His wisdom, warmth, and unwavering love were constant gifts to his children and grandchildren, who adored him beyond measure.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Amy Kirk Morgan Hood; daughters, Amy Hood Conti (husband Brant), Nancy Hood Pray (husband Cade), and Betsy Kent Hood; grandchildren, Savannah Carol Conti, Sophia Morgan Pray, William Blake Conti, and Hudson Hood Pray. He is also survived by his brother, Thomas "Bobo" Hood; sisters, Lindy Hayden, Candy Jenkins, and Cindy Hood; brothers-in-law, Jeff Morgan and Marty Morgan; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas James Hood; mother, Marie Kent Hood; father-in-law, Elmer Grady Morgan; mother-in-law, Gloria McIntyre Morgan; brother-in-law, Chip Morgan; and nephew, Tommy Hood.

In accordance with Bill's wishes, a private service will was held with close family only.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Bill's memory to the Elmer Grady Morgan Endowed Scholarship in Athletics, Southeastern Development Foundation, SLU 10293, Hammond, LA 70402.

McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.