Robert Lee Wood

Born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in West Hempstead, Long Island, Bob grew up in a close-knit family where he developed the curiosity, practicality, and good humor that would mark his life. As a young man, he became an Eagle Scout, an early sign of his leadership, resourcefulness, and commitment to others. After graduating from West Hempstead High School in 1957, he served proudly in the United States Air Force. His intelligence and initiative quickly earned recognition, and he took on responsibilities unusual for his rank, including teaching classes and helping fellow servicemen transition back into civilian life.

Following his service, Bob pursued higher education, earning his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Long Island University. His education laid the foundation for a distinguished career in insurance and risk management. Bob began with Simmons Company in New York and went on to spend nearly two decades at Athlone Industries in New Jersey, ultimately serving as Vice President and Director of Insurance. Known for his clear judgment and practical wisdom, he established innovative insurance and benefits programs, negotiated directly with international markets, and built a reputation for fairness and integrity. He later contributed to the launch of U.S. Industries, which included well-known consumer brands such as Jacuzzi and Farberware, before retiring in the 1990s.

Bob’s career accomplishments were matched by his joy in life outside of work. He was widely traveled, both in business and with his beloved wife, Carmen. Together they especially enjoyed their time in the United Kingdom, Spain, and Portugal, and created countless memories exploring Europe. Bob had an extraordinary gift for conversation — whether with executives, neighbors, or strangers, he made everyone feel valued and respected. His stories, drawn from a lifetime of experience, were legendary among those who knew him.

In 2017, Bob and Carmen moved to Pennybyrn in High Point, where they quickly formed many close friendships. Bob took a genuine interest in helping to improve life in the community, always lending his time and energy to causes that mattered. His sense of responsibility and care for others was evident in everything he did.

Bob is survived by his brother, Lawrence Wood, along with many extended family members and friends who cherished his presence in their lives. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hugh Ellis Wood and Leah Lee Miller, and his beloved wife, Carmen Iturralde Wood.

Bob will be remembered not only for his achievements, but for his remarkable common sense, his humanity, and his ability to see and respect the worth in every person he met. His kindness, wisdom, and humor touched all who knew him, and his memory will live on in the countless lives he influenced.

His life will be celebrated at 1 PM, October 2, 2025, in Ilderton Hall of Pennybyrn Retirement Community, 109 Penny Road, High Point, NC 27260 followed by a reception. Inurnment will take place at 11 AM, October 3, 2025, in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Greensboro, NC.