Terry Alden Wood Sr.

With hearts full of both love and sorrow, we remember and celebrate the life of Terry Alden Wood Sr., who passed away at his home on July 25, 2026, at the age of 74. Born on Christmas Day, December 25, 1951, in Buckhannon, West Virginia, Terry brought with him into the world a warmth and unwavering spirit that would shape every moment and every person he encountered.

Terry’s story began in the gentle hills of West Virginia, where family, hard work, and simple pleasures defined his early years. He went on to graduate from Escondido High School, an achievement that marked the beginning of a lifetime of dedication to learning and growth, both for himself and those around him.

Answering a profound call to service, Terry served his country with pride as a Marine for four years. The discipline and determination he learned in the Marines would follow him throughout his journey, evident in every hand he offered in support and every task he tackled with diligence and care.

Professionally, Terry put his strong work ethic to good use as a welder with Wellmet in Moundsville and Cameron Tool and Supply Company, and a Hevey Equipment Operator.   He was known for his expertise and the precision with which he crafted hooks that were good enough to be x-rayed, a testament to the pride he took in his craft.

Away from work, Terry’s world was rich with simple joys and pure passions. He was a man who never met a stranger—marked by his friendliness, outgoing nature, and boundless warmth. Terry loved deeply: his family, his many friends, and the land he called home. The farm was his refuge, a place where he could spend time feeding animals, milking goats and pigs, canning vegetables, and making homemade jelly. He delighted in the gifts of the earth, and in sharing that abundance— jars of preserves, fresh vegetables—with those he loved.

Terry’s adventurous spirit saw him, in his twenties, hitchhiking across the country to Seattle and back—a journey that became one of his favorite stories to recount. He loved western movies, especially those starring Clint Eastwood, and found equal joy hunting and fishing. These outdoor pursuits grew even more precious because they became time spent with his children and others, passing on his wisdom and love for the land.

Of all his accomplishments, Terry was proudest of his children. Family was the heart of his world, and he gifted them with generosity, laughter, guidance, and enduring love. Those left to cherish his memory include his devoted wife Gloria; his beloved son Jesse; his daughter Sandra Whetzel DeLauder; his sisters Sonya and Cliffette Hanlan; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Terry joins in peace those who went before him, including his parents, James and Imogene Wood; his brothers Richard Dilley, Gary Dilley, Denis Wood, and Bruce Wood; and his son, Terry Wood Jr., who no doubt welcomed him with open arms.

Terry Alden Wood Sr.'s legacy will endure in the laughter of his grandchildren, the hands working the soil on the family farm, the stories retold by those who knew and loved him, and in every warm greeting between strangers, echoing his open-hearted approach to life. His example of kindness, resilience, and unwavering devotion is a gift his family and friends will treasure always.

As we gather in spirit and memory, we honor a life lived fully, richly, and with joy. Rest now, Terry, surrounded by the peace you gave so freely to others. Your journey continues in every heart you touched.

To leave a condolence visit www.schuetzfuneralhome.com