Gary Stephen Wood

Gary Stephen Wood was called home by the Lord on April 24th, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Steve Wood was born to Bird Powell Wood Ousley and Travis Wood, on November 13th, 1940. He grew up in Montgomery, Alabama with his mother and two brothers, Travis and Randle, after the passing of his father, Travis Wood Sr. Steve married the love of his life, Beth Park Wood, on March 31st, 1961. He graduated from Sidney Lanier High School in Montgomery, Alabama, and later attended the University of Alabama before transferring to Auburn University where Steve received a double major in Mathematics and Agriculture and later received his master's in Guidance Counselling from Jacksonville State University. Steve Wood was more than just an agricultural education teacher; he was an inspiration to all who knew him. For 30 years, he dedicated his life to teaching the next generation about forestry and horticulture. Not only did he teach at Tate Highschool, but he also worked part-time at the Pensacola State College and was a sponsor of the FFA. His passion for teaching was evident in everything he did. But Steve's passions didn't end with teaching. He had a deep love for cooking, and in his retirement, he was finally able to focus on perfecting his culinary craft. He enjoyed feeding people, sharing love through his gourmet food. However, his true joy came from being outdoors. Steve was an avid outdoorsman who found peace and happiness in nature, whether it was on a fishing boat, hunting in the woods, or simply exploring the great outdoors. Steve's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his teaching and passion for the outdoors. He inspired others to pursue their passions, and his dedication to his craft was an example for all to follow. Though he may no longer be with us, he will forever be remembered as an inspiration and a true lover of life. Steve Wood is survived by his wife, Beth Wood, 2 children: Betsy Wood Jolly [Bill] Ginger Wood McGuigan [Dave], 5 grandchildren: Stephen Jolly [Tiffany], Robert McGuigan, Kate Kropp [Josh], Madeline Bryan [Garrett], Alex Mederos [Elvis] and 7 great-grandchildren: William Kropp, Eric Kropp, Zoey Kropp, Emmy Mederos, Julia Jolly, Katelynn Jolly, Reid Bryan. A celebration of Steve Wood’s life will be held on April 28th, 2023, at 1 pm at Johnson’s Funeral Home located in Georgianna, Alabama, where friends and family are invited to gather for a service of remembrance. ARRANGEMENTS BY WOLFE-BAYVIEW FUNERAL HOMES & CREMATORY, INC. 19698 GREENO RD. FAIRHOPE AL. 36532 (251) 990-7775