Jewel Wood

Jewel Wood, 91, of Wichita Falls died Saturday, March 3, 2012 at Hospice of Wichita Falls. A graveside service has been scheduled for 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at Crestview Memorial Park officiated by Pastor Clifton McFadden of Word of Grace Church in Iowa Park.

Jewel was born February 22, 1921 in Altoga, Texas to Henry Clay and Hettie (Brewer) Alder. After graduating from Blue Ridge High School, she was “Rosie the Riveter” for two aircraft manufacturers in Texas and California during WWII. Her petite frame enabled her to maneuver and assemble parts and electrical wiring inside the aircraft wings. She married Chief Master Sergeant Clifton O. Wood October 9, 1942 in California and together they raised three children. They moved to Wichita Falls in 1959 when he was stationed at SAFB. She had a passion for decorating and was constantly redecorating their home. Jewel was a member of First Baptist Church and loved to watch Dr. David Jeremiah.

Mrs. Wood is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 30 years, Clifton Wood in 1972; parents; two sisters, Emma McTee, Grace Reynolds; four brothers, Charlie, Nick, Walton, and Herbert Alder.

Survivors include her best friend, Elmo Towery; children and their spouses, Lahna and Gary Wheeler of Burkburnett, Pete Wood, Margie Wood and McGregor Wichita Falls, Roger and Ann Towery of Nocona; sister, Erma Lou Langston of Grand Prairie, TX; sister-in-law, Lurline Walker of Howe, TX; and four grandchildren, Julie Mandrell of Dallas, Matt Mandrell and Misti Swearingen of Burkburnett, Sarah and Matt Beggs of Mt. Shasta, CA, Jared Wood of Bakersfield, CA, Sibby Towery of Nocona; great-grandchildren, Taylor and Cooper Beggs, Brent and Katie Wood, Alex Towery, Tripp Swearingen; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held 5:00-7:00 p.m., Monday, March 5, 2012 at Hampton Vaughan Funeral Home.

If desired, memorials may be made to Hospice of Wichita Falls.

Please share your condolences and fond memories with the Wood family at www.hamptonvaughancrestview.com.