Roger Ellis Wood

Roger Ellis Wood, age 74, of Shelbyville, passed from this life on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at his home, surrounded by loved ones, after an extended illness.
Born on September 25, 1950, in Decatur, Alabama, Roger was the son of the late Mazie Lee Wood and Jewel Christine Gardner Wood. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Jeremey Wood, and son-in-law, Curt Alsup.
Roger graduated from Central High School in Columbia, TN class of 1968, and went on to serve in the United States Air Force, where he worked as an airplane mechanic and played in the USAF Band.
A natural people-person with a gift for conversation, Roger enjoyed a varied and fulfilling career. He worked with Burlington Northern, Cosmolab, and Bob Parks Realty before following his passion and opening his own golf shop and driving range. Later, he found joy in sharing stories and history as a tour guide at Jack Daniel's Distillery and served as a respected judge at barbecue competitions across the South.
Roger was a devoted member of Calvary Baptist Church and proudly involved in several veterans' organizations, including the American Legion, VFW, DAV, and Wreaths Across America. Music was a lifelong love, and he played in several local bands over the years.
Above all, Roger cherished time spent with his family and friends. His warmth, humor, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Roger is survived by devoted wife of 40 years, Sharon King Wood of Shelbyville; children, Christina Lee (David) Jones of Tullahoma, Roger Wood II of Shelbyville, Angela Michelle Alsup of Minor Hill, William Shannon (Andy Gaither) Joyce of Nashville, and Thomas Edward "Tommy" (Kim) Joyce of Shelbyville; daughter-in-law, Cortney Wood of Estill Spring, 12 grandkids, and 2 great grandkids.
A Celebration of Life service will be held 6:00 p.m. Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Calvary Baptist Church with Pastor Tyler Shoemaker officiating. Visitation will be held prior to services on Thursday, starting at 4:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Roger Ellis Wood's memory to Defenders of Freedom & Liberty (attention Tim Estis, 139 Warner Bridge Rd. Shelbyville, TN 37160).
Doak-Howell Funeral Home is serving the family.
www.doakhowellfuneralhome.com