Sylvia K. Wood

Sylvia King Wood of Ellenton, Florida passed away at age 67, Saturday, February 15th , 2014. She was born in Greeneville, Tennessee on June 20th, 1946. Her parents moved to Palmetto, Florida when she was 11 years old. Sylvia attended Palmetto High School where she met “The Love Her Life” and husband of 44 years, Sammy Wood.

Sylvia was preceded in death by her Father, James King; Brother, Spencer King. She leaves behind her Husband Samuel “Sammy” L. Wood; two Children: Kristi Mathis (Duane) and Sammy S. Wood; Grandchildren: Skyler Wood, Spencer Wood, and Kelton Mathis; Mother, Irene King; Sister, Darlene Kronemann.

Sylvia was a wonderful person. She was known for her caring, giving, energetic, upbeat personality. She was a wonderful friend for all those close to her. She never met a stranger. She had the most beautiful smile and contagious laugh. If you were in the room with her you were laughing. She loved her family most of all, and they knew it. She was always willing to help others, before herself.

Sylvia attended Palmetto High School and was a member of the Class of 1964. While attending PHS she received numerous honors such as: Calendar Girl, Cover Girl, Homecoming Court, Drill Team, Cheerleader Captain, “P” Club, Business Club, FFA Sweetheart, Senior Notable. She also attended classes at Manatee Community College.

Sylvia later returned to work at PHS as Bookeeper for 35 years, until retirement in June 2012. She put her heart and soul into her work and had “True Tiger Pride.” She received numerous awards and honors during her time at PHS; to name just a few: Employee of the Year 1993, Employee of the Year 2010, District Employee of the Year 2010. Sylvia was known for planning unforgettable parties and events for the PHS faculty and staff. She was a master at organizing the PHS Football reserved ticket sales. She spear headed numerous fundraising programs, including the sign program around the baseball field and the digital marquee in the front of the school, to name a couple.

Sylvia participated in numerous school and community volunteer activities, such as: Countless Hours and Dedication to the Students at Williams Elementary School, Sunday School Teacher, Community Campaign Volunteer, School and Sports Activities with Her Children, Blood Donor, High School Cheerleading Sponsor, High School Reunion Planning Committee.

Above all else Sylvia loved her family and her family loved her.

Receiving of friends will be at Palm View First Baptist Church at 415 49th St E Palmetto, FL 34221 on Thursday February 20th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. A service celebrating her life will be held at First United Methodist Church of Palmetto 330 11th Ave W Palmetto, FL 34221 on Friday February 21st at 10:30 a.m. Funeral arrangements will be handled by Groover Funeral Home at Mansion Memorial Park 1400 36th Ave E Ellenton, FL 34222; 941-722-6602. Online condolences can be made at www.dignitymemorial.com/groover-funeralhome.

To honor Sylvia, a scholarship fund is being established in her name on behalf of the Palmetto High School Athletic Boosters Club, please make checks payable to the Palmetto High School Athletic Boosters. In addition, donations to the American Heart Association will be welcomed.

Arrangements under the direction of Groover Funeral Home at Mansion Memorial Park, Ellenton, FL.