William Ralph Wood

William Ralph Wood was born November 25, 1954 in Tuscaloosa, Al. He went to be with Jesus Saturday November 19, 2016. He graduated Tuscaloosa High School in 1972. He graduated from The University of Alabama with a B.S. in Social Work in 1977. He had a long career in the Sporting Goods field starting as manager of The Athletes Foot. He later became a District Manager for Hibbett Sporting Goods. He was a representative for Starter, New Balance, Dunham, and Pro Player. He owned an athletic shoe and apparel store called Sports Adventure from 1992 to 1994. He was the manager for a New Balance store from 2001 to 2005.

Will was a wonderful husband, father, brother, grandfather, friend, and mentor. He was a funny guy. He loved to make people laugh. He loved playing the bass guitar which he taught himself to play as a teenager. He became a very accomplished bass player and played in many Christian bands during the Jesus movement beginning in the 70s. More recently he enjoyed playing in praise and worship bands at several churches. Will loved the Lord so much and had served him faithfully since he was in high school. His health disabled him but he still found ways to make music for his friends by giving them guitars he had made for them. He never met a stranger and could carry on a conversation with anyone. He had a big, giving heart and his generosity knew no bounds. His life touched so many people and he will be greatly missed by all.

Will is survived by his wife, Sylvia Johnson Odom Wood; sons, Matthew Wood (Sarah), and Andy Odom; daughters, Katie Buse, Kari Presley (Brad), and Kelly Burkey (Lee); a sister, Donna Wood Crowell (Billy); and grandchildren, Jack Wood, Eli and Drew Buse, Alex and Blake Presley, Sylvie Jane and Stella Burkey. Graveside Services will be Friday, November 25, 2016 at 2 PM in Oakwood Memorial Gardens in Gardendale followed by a Memorial Service on Sunday, November 27th at 4:00 PM at King’s Way Church, 4445 Crescent Road, Birmingham, AL 35210.