Obituary of JR Wood

JR Wood Of Independence, age 61, passed away on Saturday, January 6, 2024, in the comfort of his own home and with his loving family at his bedside. He was born in Chillicothe, OH on January 20, 1962, to the late Florence Viola {Sheets} and Ralph L. Wood, Sr. He grew up in Jackson, OH where he enjoyed spending time hunting, trapping, playing trumpet in the high school band and participating in Bible quizzing. He received an Associate Degree in Scientific Laboratory Technology from Cincinnati State and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Thomas More. He graduated summa cum laude from both schools and was also the Salutatorian for his high school graduating class.

JR was called to preach and teach the Word of God at age 17 and truly lived his life to fulfill that calling. He was faithful to his Lord and Savior through all of life’s ups and downs. Through out his life, JR served as Associate Pastor at Crescent Springs Church of God for 10 years, Pastor at Scott Street Church of God for 2 years, and Bishop in the Church of God. Later in his life he became a member and Deacon at Community Family Church. During his time at CFC, he served on the Deacon Board, participated in the praise and worship band, led small groups, was a part of the Discipleship class, and was a Wednesday night Bible teacher. Education was always one of JR’s passions. After years of insurance sales and distinguished careers at both P&G and Duke Energy, he retired and became a high school math teacher at Community Christian Academy. His nearly 5 years of teaching were some of the best experiences of JR’s life. He had a positive impact on anyone that met him and had the pleasure to spend time with him. He was genuinely kind and caring in a way that made everyone he encountered feel loved and special. He knew how to speak to everyone, no matter what age, race, gender, or place in life. JR married the love of his life when he was 19 and instilled in his children how to truly cherish someone. When JR was not serving others, he enjoyed music, movies, and fishing. However, his most favorite thing of all was spending time with his family, especially his grandkids. He was a husband, dad, pappy, brother, and friend who will be deeply missed by those who knew him.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his siblings, Kenny Wood and Virginia Wood.

He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Deborah Wood; children, Krystie (Jason) Daniels and Jeremy (Billie Jo) Wood; 6 grandchildren; brothers, Robert “Bob” Wood and Timothy “Tim” Wood; as well as several other friends and relatives who will cherish his memory.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, from 4:30 PM until 7:30 PM, at Community Family Church, 11875 Taylor Mill Rd. Independence, KY 41051. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, beginning at 12:00 PM at the church. Immediately following the service, JR will be laid to rest at New Bethel Cemetery in Verona, KY. Memorial donations can be made in his name to Community Christian Academy by texting 859-359-3997 for a link to donate. To share a memory or to leave an online condolence, please visit the tribute wall tab.