Frances Smith Wood

Frances Smith Wood, 97, of Altavista, Virginia passed away on Friday, August 29, 2025. She was the daughter of the late Joseph Riley Smith and Sarah Elizabeth Hawley Smith.

Frances was born on January 26, 1928, in Bedford County, Virginia. She was a devoted member of Tree of Life and worked as a seamstress for many years at Ralph’s Garment Co., where she later retired.

Frances is survived by her daughters, Norma Harris (Ronnie), Brenda Evans, and Susan Phillips; sons, Ronnie Leonard (Robin), and Steven Wood (Pam); special niece, Ruth Thomas, twenty-two grandchildren, twenty-six great-grandchildren, and eleven great-great-grandchildren; and a special caregiver and family friend, Wanda Crider.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Julian Clark Wood; her sons, Frank and Marvin Leonard, son-in-law, Donnie Evans; special son-in-law, JoJo Phillips; who opened his home and loved her so much, and eight brothers and sisters.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to her granddaughter, Susan Evans; caregivers, Donna Radar and Lucinda Davis; and Centra Hospice for their compassionate care and support. When you remember her, remember to smile and be kind. It was a motto she lived by. She will be missed by all who knew her.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at 2:00 pm at Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg with Pastor Mike Dodson officiating. A visitation will be held one hour prior. Burial will immediately follow the service at Fort Hill Memorial Park.

Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg is assisting the family. To send condolences, please visit www.tharpfuneralhome.com