James Emmett 'J.E.' Wood

James Emmett ‘J.E.’ Wood was born November 1st, 1939, to James Emmett Wood and Ina DeWitt in Beaman, Missouri. He departed this life on Saturday, July 9th at University of Missouri Medical Center in Columbia, Missouri. He was preceded in death by both parents as well as his sisters, Betty Ruth Wood and Margaret Ellen Kirchner. J.E. spent his formative years in the Detroit suburb of Redford, Michigan. His former classmates remember him as an energetic, light-hearted friend who would drop whatever he was doing to hop on his bicycle and join them for a joy ride. In high school he took a keen interest in machine shop and drafting, graduating in 1958. After high school J.E. worked in a myriad of industries, finally telling a friend that he wanted to be, “out on the open road." He stayed true to that sentiment throughout his career as a long haul truck driver, with companies including Kotter & Company True Value and ABF Freight. He was married to Barbara Ann Jackson in Sedalia, Missouri on March 31st, 1960. They welcomed two children together, Teresa Lynn Wood, and Brian Dale Wood. After retiring in 2006 he relocated to Florida to be near his sister, and spent his days entertaining friends in the sunshine. In June 2022 he moved back home to Missouri to be near family. J.E. is survived by his children, as well as five grandchildren and three great grandchildren. He is remembered by those who loved him for his sense of humor & generosity. He was a gregarious spirit who never sacrificed for his ideals or freedom. An intimate, graveside service will be held in Beaman, Missouri.