Thomas Branson Wood

Thomas Branson Wood passed away suddenly on Friday, October 31, 2025.

Branson was a lifelong resident of Haywood County. He graduated from Pisgah High School and attended Berea College in Kentucky and later graduated from A-B Technical College. He proudly served in Germany in the US Army.

Starting at an early age, Branson loved to take things apart and put them back together like model cars. He spent over 30 years as a gifted HVAC mechanic serving Western North Carolina and was appreciated by his customers.

Branson was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Seth Wood and Mary Catherine Wood.

He is survived by his former wife and good friend Marlene Wood, two beloved sons Aaron Wood (Heather) and Mark Wood (Melanie); his sister Selina Wood Naik (Narayan); his four cherished granddaughters- Makayla, with whom he had a special relationship, Savannah, Averi, Rubi; his beloved grandson Easton; two darling great grandchildren (Bentley, Novaline); his niece Priya Naik (Greg); his nephew Akash Naik (Erica) and three great nephews (Andrew, Eli, Lennox).

Branson was cherished by his uncle Alden McCracken and all his cousins.

Branson was known for his mischievous grin, tall tales and generous heart. He loved music and sang in the choir. He was a beloved father, brother, and friend and will be deeply missed.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Seth Burns and Doyce Bryson.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00PM on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at Plains Methodist Church, Newfound Road. Pastor Court Greene will be officiating. A fellowship lunch will follow the service.

Memorials may be made in Branson's memory to Haywood Christian Ministry at https://hcmnc.org/ or to Disabled American Veterans at https://help.dav.org.

Crawford / Ray Funeral Home and Cremation Service is deeply honored to be caring for the Wood family.