Gerald Thomas Wood
Born 1936 — Died 2022

Gerald Thomas Wood, “Jerry,” was born in Red Bluff, California, in 1936.

When he was 3 years old, he, his brother, and his mother went to live with his grandmother in Healdsburg, California, after his father went to fight in World War II.

Jerry grew up enjoying swimming in the Russian River, riding his bike, and playing with his dog, Spot.

Jerry attended college in Santa Rosa and was a member of the US Coast Guard for three years.

Jerry also served as a deputy sheriff in Lake County for 27 years. He became a sergeant and was in charge of patrolling the lakes around Lake County, including Clear Lake, Blue Lakes and Lake Pillsbury.

Jerry met his wife, Joan, when they were 3 years old growing up in Healdsburg. They were always good friends but did not marry until years later after they were both divorced.

Combined, they’ve had eight children, five daughters and three sons, as well as 14 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

Jerry always enjoyed diving for abalone, fishing on his boat, hunting, and traveling with his wife in their motorhome.

Most of all Jerry enjoyed spending time with family and attending kids, grandkids and great-grandkids events throughout the years.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Wilda Wood; brother, Wally Wood; son, JT Wood; and grandson, Conner Thomas.