Vernon Joseph "Coby" Hood Jr.

Vernon Joseph "Coby" Hood, Jr. passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with lung disease and other complications that would have broken most people. His strength, humor, and faith carried him through every challenge until his final breath.

Born in New Orleans and a lifelong resident of Metairie, Coby built his life around hard work, faith, and family. He graduated from Jesuit High School in 1973 and earned his bachelor's degree in political science from the University of New Orleans in 1978. His professional journey began at TACA Airlines in 1977, and he later retired as a Customer Service Supervisor from Southwest Airlines in 2016. Known for his easy charm and gift of gab, Coby had a special talent for connecting with people-leaving lasting impressions on colleagues and passengers alike.

Coby had a heart as big as his writing style (IYKYK) and a laugh that could fill a room. He could make you smile even on your hardest day and had a way of reminding everyone around him what truly matters-faith, family, friendship, and showing up for one another.

A devoted member of Celebration Church, Coby deepened his relationship with God through Bible study, fellowship, and service. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, guided by the words of Ephesians 2:8–10:

"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."

Coby was preceded in death by his loving parents, Vernon Joseph Hood, Sr. and Hilda Olivia Courtney Hood, and his brothers, James C. Hood and Richard J. Hood.

He is survived by his beloved children, Vernon J. Hood III (Shauna), Hilda O. Gremillion (Brandon), Angela C. Hood, Jimmy C. Hood, and Richard J. Hood; his cherished grandchildren, Austin Hood, Oliver Hood, Audrey Hood, Dylan Hood, Lyanna Gremillion, and Hannah Eukel; and his siblings, Courtney A. "Cookie" Hood (Joe Estrade), Patricia A. Hood (Michael R. Roberson), Donald E. Hood, Gerald P. Hood (Sherry King), and Jacqueline A. H. Oser.

Coby will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, quick wit, and unwavering love for his family and friends. His laughter, kindness, and the lessons he shared will live on in all who were blessed to know and love him.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Ochsner's transplant team for their incredible care, compassion, and support.

A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will be held at Celebration Church, 2001 Airline Dr., Metairie, Louisiana, on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. Family and friends are warmly invited to join in honoring his memory. We also invite you to share your thoughts, memories, and condolences online at www.greenwoodfh.com