Eugene Henry Wood

Born October 9, 1944, in San Bernardino to Audrey (nee Stephen) and Eugene Wood. After graduating from SBHS ’62 Gene went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from UC San Diego and a Master in Business from Southern Methodist University. Gene became a Banker, working with Security Pacific Bank 23 years, becoming manager of the Commercial Loan Division.

Taking a break from banking in the late ‘80’s Gene was general manager of the National Orange Show before creating his own consulting business E.H. Wood and Associates. He served as sole advisor to many economic development agencies and arranged high end financing for their projects including ones for the Inland Water District.

Returning to Banking in 2000, while serving on the Board of Directors of Valley Bank in Moreno Valley , he was to asked take over the presidency of the bank. Within two years the bank returned to solid financial footing and was bought by the international bank BBVA. Gene moved on to assume the presidency of South County Bank in Orange County and during his tenure there created the successful Redlands division called Inland Valley Bank.

As a fourth generation San Bernardinoite Gene was very committed to the betterment of his hometown and over the years served in many community capacities. He was Chairman of the World Affairs Council, President of the SB Chamber of Commerce, President of the San Bernardino County Children’s Resources and through consecutive reelections served 18 years as a member of the San Bernardino Community College district board. He was vice chairman of the Crafton Hills College Foundation and the San Bernardino Valley College campus’ KVCR and Radio Foundation. Gene served many years on the boards of the San Bernardino Railroad Historical Society and the Civic Light Opera Foundation.

After 50 years in banking Gene retired to the “good life” offered in Beaumont. Always wanting to stay involved in his community he took a volunteer position on the board of directors for Table of Plenty, an all-volunteer organization that provided nutritious and wholesome hot meals to residents of the San Gorgonio Pass and surrounding areas.

A memorial service will be held November 25th at 12:00p.m. at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 225 E. 8th Street, Beaumont, with a reception to follow at the church parish hall.

In lieu of flowers, please make your donation to Table of Plenty at tableofplenty.org.