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Gene Wood
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Gene Wood Obituary
Born in Greenwood, he was a son of the late James Harold and Violet Jean Morris Wood. Gene dedicated his life to the betterment of others through his work in public education and his unwavering commitment to his faith.
Gene earned his Bachelor's degree from Lander University and later obtained a Master's degree from Clemson University. He served as an instructor, guidance counselor, and assistant band director at Greenwood School District #51 in Ware Shoals, making a lasting impact on many students' lives. His passion for special education was evident throughout his decades-long career, which also included teaching roles at Southside and Northside Middle Schools in Greenwood, as well as schools in Ninety Six and Dillon.
A die-hard USC Gamecock fan, Gene was not only known for his intelligence but also for his enormous heart and selfless nature, always willing to lend a hand to those in need. He was deeply passionate about music, people, and football. He was a dedicated member of the Ninety Six Pentecostal Holiness Church. Gene loved God and shared his faith by teaching Sunday School, where he inspired many with his wisdom and compassion.
Gene is survived by his brother, Randy Wood; his niece, Shelley Poss; great niece and nephew, Annee Wardlaw (Tajh "T.J.") and Gage Poss (Jessica); great great nieces and nephews, Layne, Tajhanae, Ja'Leah, Phyer, Leonidas and Wylder; and his dog child, Karma.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth Paul Wood.
In honor of Gene's life and legacy, a memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday at Mt. Gallagher Baptist Church, 11570 Indian Mound Rd., Ware Shoals with the Rev. Brian Brock officiating.
The family will receive friends prior to the memorial service on Saturday from 3:00-4:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Gene's memory may be made to the Ware Shoals Marching Band, c/o Ware Shoals High School, 56 S. Greenwood Avenue, Ware Shoals, SC 29692.
Harley Funeral Home and Crematory (www.harleyfuneralhome.com) is in charge of arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for Gene Wood
Nov
22
Funeral services provided by:
Harley Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc.1025 South Main St. P.O. Box 777, Greenwood, SC 29648
Memories and Condolences
for Gene Wood
9 Entries
Mary Morgan Hawthorne
November 19, 2025
RIP Mr. Woods. You were a great counselor and mentor to many students. I'm glad that you were able to spread some inspiration into my children. I can honestly say with you. No kids were left behind. Because you wanted the best for them ALL. Take your rest sweet man. Condolences to your family and friends.
Joy (Hawkins) Rivers
November 18, 2025
Gene the world is missing you already. I was so sad when I saw your obituary. Your quick wit and ability to make me laugh in high school band was priceless. I was so happy to see that you were part of the band family in Ware Shoals. I know your students loved you! Your personality would light up a room! For those that knew you know that GOD broke the mold when he made you. You were one of a kind and I am so grateful to have known you.
Thoughts and prayers with your family I know they will miss you like crazy. RIP my friend
Atoya Goode
November 17, 2025
He will truly be missed
November 17, 2025
My condolences to the Wood family from the Foster's family. A friend that you will never forget.
Sheila McCabe
November 17, 2025
Always with a smile.
Taya Parker
November 17, 2025
Mr wood was a literal angel walking the earth! He got me and my siblings through some dark days. He was a shoulder when we needed it, a warm hug when we lacked it at home! I could go into his office and just say nothing! He could read the room so quickly that I was struggling and he would get me. After high school I would see him here and there and he would stop dead in his tracks to rush over to me to see how life turned out for me! Later I had my own daughter and when she started school he was her counselor and when I would see him we would catch up. I´ll never forget him telling me how proud he was of me that I beat the odds, I made a change in my life to be better for my daughter than what I was given. Mr wood made a huge impact on my life alone and I´ll forever be grateful for him! I wish I would had told him thank you for being the guidance counselor who never stopped guiding. Thank you for never giving up on me. You believed in me even when I couldn´t believe in myself. Your guidance still lives in every step I take. Rest peacefully! You made a difference that will never fade.
Benson Odom
November 17, 2025
Mr. Wood was there for me when I needed the most support in high school. He was the first educator to talk to me like I was an adult and ready provided a ground for me when I couldn´t find my step. Gene Wood from Greenwood will always hold a special place in my heart because I´m not sure I would have survived the turbulence without him. I feel certain I´m not alone either. A true good hearted soul who was there for others and brought calm to chaos. He will be greatly missed.
Lisha Tompkins Walker
November 17, 2025
Im just finding out about Gene. My heart hurts. I loved being a part of the band because Gene made it fun. I always remember him as the loudest cheerleader and most positive band member. Rest in peace my friend.
Karen Parker Sndetson
November 17, 2025
What a mighty man.
Prayers for comfort and peace.
Karen Parker Anderson
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