Greenwood, August 19, 2025
News Summary
Jimmy Ray Wood, an 80-year-old National Guard veteran and passionate sports fan from Greenwood, passed away on August 14, 2025. Known for his dedication to his family, community, and love for the New York Yankees and South Carolina Gamecocks, he made a significant impact during his life. A funeral service will be held on August 23, where attendees are encouraged to wear garnet and black in honor of his sports loyalty. The community remembers Wood not only for his accomplishments but also for the joy he brought to sporting events.
Greenwood, SC – Jimmy Ray Wood, an 80-year-old former National Guard member and devoted sports fan, passed away on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Self Regional Healthcare in Greenwood. He was a lifelong resident of Greenwood County and the son of the late Herman O. Wood and Lula Elizabeth Mitchell Wood.
Jimmy Wood is survived by his wife, Rosemary Pugh Johnson Wood, as well as his daughter, Christie W. Norgart, and several beloved grandchildren, including Van, Cale, and Tucker Norgart. His family also includes his sister, Lena Warren, along with multiple nieces and nephews.
Wood proudly served in the South Carolina National Guard with the 122nd Engineer Company in Saluda. He had a long and fulfilling career at CenturyLink, a telecommunications company, from which he eventually retired. In addition to his professional career, Mr. Wood was deeply involved in his community as a longtime member of Good Hope Baptist Church.
Wood was best known for his enthusiasm for sports, particularly as a passionate supporter of the New York Yankees and the South Carolina Gamecocks. He was a dedicated member of the Gamecock Club for over 50 years and attended almost every Gamecocks game, cheering for his team alongside family and friends.
A funeral service to honor Mr. Wood is scheduled for 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Good Hope Baptist Church. The service will be officiated by Rev. Lee Going and Rev. Randy Ouzts, with interment following at Mayson Memorial. The family requests that attendees wear garnet and black in recognition of Mr. Wood’s loyalty to the Gamecocks.
Prior to the service, family and friends will have the opportunity to gather from 1 to 3 p.m. at Mr. Wood’s childhood home. For those wishing to honor his memory, memorial contributions can be made to Good Hope Baptist Church, located at 6682 Greenwood Highway, Saluda, SC 29138. Additionally, friends are invited to share their memories and condolences online at www.rameyfuneralhome.com.
Background Context
Mr. Wood’s passing marks a significant loss for his family and the many friends he made throughout his life in Greenwood. His dedication to family, community service, and sports have left an indelible mark on those who knew him. His participation in the South Carolina National Guard exemplified his commitment to serving his country, while his long-standing career with CenturyLink showcased his work ethic and dedication to providing for his family.
Jimmy Ray Wood will be remembered not only for his accomplishments and community involvement but also for the joy he brought to sporting events, embodying the spirit of true fandom. His legacy lives on through his family and the many athletes and fans he inspired throughout his life.
FAQ Section
What was Jimmy Ray Wood’s age at the time of passing?
Jimmy Ray Wood was 80 years old when he passed away on August 14, 2025.
When and where are the funeral services for Jimmy Ray Wood?
The funeral services are scheduled for 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Good Hope Baptist Church.
How can friends and family honor Jimmy Ray Wood’s memory?
Memorial contributions can be made to Good Hope Baptist Church, and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences online at www.rameyfuneralhome.com.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Jimmy Ray Wood |
| Age at Passing | 80 |
| Date of Passing | August 14, 2025 |
| Family Members | Wife, daughter, three grandchildren, sister, multiple nieces and nephews |
| Military Service | South Carolina National Guard, 122nd Engineer Company |
| Career | CenturyLink, retired |
| Church Affiliation | Good Hope Baptist Church |
| Sports Affiliation | Dedicated fan of the New York Yankees and South Carolina Gamecocks |
| Funeral Service Date | August 23, 2025, at 4 p.m. |
| Memorial Contributions | Good Hope Baptist Church |
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Additional Resources
- Index Journal: Jimmy Ray Wood
- Legacy: Rachel Roper Culbreath
- Legacy: Eliza Lott
- Legacy: James Frazier
- Legacy: Fredna Butler
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Google Search: Jimmy Ray Wood
- Google Scholar: Jimmy Ray Wood
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Google News: Jimmy Ray Wood
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
