Humor, Christianity shape father

A hard working family man who enjoyed a good practical joke is how family members said they will remember James Wood.

Besides a wonderful sense of humor, Charles Wood said he will always respect his father’s belief that anyone regardless of their circumstances can improve themselves and their lives.

“Dad instilled in us a good Christian moral code. He believed in treating others how you want to be treated, but he also believed firmly in forgiveness and giving people second chances,” Charles said. “We all make mistakes, but dad was a very loving person and no matter what we did he continued to love us unconditionally.”

Watching his father and mother grow together during their 54 years of marriage leaves Charles with a great deal of admiration for his parents deep devotion to each other.

“Even if it was just sitting by each other holding hands it was evident all through my childhood that my parents really loved each other,” Charles said.

A loving brother, caring family man and avid fisherman are just a few of the best qualities Frona Jones said she could use to describe her brother James.

“He never met a stranger,” said Jones, recalling how James had always been a people person.

Outgoing, out-spoken and generous are the words William Railing said explains his foster father James. Faith in God and an understanding that through honesty, integrity and hard work anything is possible are two life lessons Railing said he thanks James for proving to him.

“(James) showed me that he believed in taking care of his family at any cost and he taught me that without hard work you can’t get anywhere,” Railing said.