Kenneth Wood

Kenneth Ray Wood, 85, peacefully went to heaven on July 18, 2025 after battling dementia for several years.

Ken was born in McLemoresville, TN, on December 31, 1939. He was the second youngest of eight children.

After earning a degree in Education at the University of Chattanooga, Ken began his career in Rossville, Ga, where he would later meet Betty Larkin. Ken and Betty were married on October 30, 1976.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents Earl Thomas and Avo Milam Wood. Siblings who have passed are Elizabeth Miller, Ouida Felts Welborn, Thomas Wood Jr., and John Wood.

Ken is survived by his wife of 48 years Betty Wood and their two sons Kenny Wood (Christine) and Justin Wood (Melissa). He has five grandchildren: Charlotte, Milam, Mabel, Poncy Ruth, and Maggie. His surviving siblings are Charlie Wood, Sue Crossett, and Leslie Wood.

Ken was an educator for 46 years, beginning as a Science Teacher and later as a Guidance Counselor, earning his specialist degree from the University of Alabama. He served the Rossville Junior High, Rossville High School, Ridgeland High School, and East Ridge High School communities. Ken valued the growth and development of students and helping them plan a path for their future success. He truly cared about each of his students and continued to serve them through the years. He was an active member of McFarland United Methodist Church where he was a Sunday School teacher, served on a variety of committees, and participated in mission trips from Kentucky to New Mexico. Ken actively encouraged and supported the participation in Scouting, 4-H, Band, and Sports by his sons and many others. He enjoyed water skiing, card games, traveling, hiking, laughter, and spending time with friends. Ken had a passion for serving those he loved and organizations he cared about, through preparing meals and catering events.

Visit www.heritagebattlefield.com to share condolences with the family, view the memorial tribute and livestream of the service.

The family invites you to join them for a time of visitation and remembrance on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and A Celebration of Life Service will be held Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Heritage Funeral Home in Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia.

Memorial contributions can be made to First Centenary United Methodist Church - Abide Program, 419 McCallie Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37402.

Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home & Crematory, Battlefield Parkway.