William Travis Wood

The adopted son of Mary and Charles Wood, Bill was born in Jackson County Mississippi on Feb 1, 1949. He took pneumonia at age one and developed a high fever that resulted in brain damage. He was a beautiful baby with a very limited vocabulary. He was mobile and was able to develop a strong and defined personality and a clear way to make his desires known despite his inability to express them in words. He was always smiling and happy.

Mary and Charles, his adoptive parents, drew inspiration from Bill in identifying a need for the mentally challenged to have homes and workshops to provide a support structure to facilitate safer, happier, and healthier lives. As such, they were among the first families in Mobile to start the Mobile Association for Retarded Citizens (MARC) and establish group homes.

Bill lived a happy life and was truly a loving person. Bill enjoyed many activities. He loved to play records of Elvis Presley and Glen Campbell and enjoyed watching the Lawrence Welk Show, the Andy Griffith Show, and golf on television. He also enjoyed playing with little cars and looking at magazines, especially TV Guides. Bill loved going to his beach house in Gulf Shores for many years on weekends and holidays. He also enjoyed going to his Aunt and Uncle’s farms, riding in trucks, and eating good food. Bill attended many functions put on by MARC and especially enjoyed his bowling outings. Since his vocabulary was limited, he had his own names for different relatives when he would see them.

His life and his death taught all who knew him of God’s wisdom, grace, sovereignty, and power. God instructs us that every human life from conception is precious and has a purpose and plan and destiny.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Charles Wood, and many aunts and uncles. He is survived by his sister, Brenda Wood Hollis of Foley, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In light of the recent health crisis, a graveside service will be held at Pine Rest Cemetery in Foley with family members only. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Alta Pointe, 5750 Southland Drive, Mobile, AL 36693 and the Charles Wood Japanese Gardens, 900 Forest Hill Drive, Mobile, AL 36608.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome-mobile.com for the Wood family.