Geneve Lee Wood

Born February 20, 1933, she entered the world at home in a log cabin and was raised on the farm—an early life that shaped her steady strength, enduring patience, and deep appreciation for simple, honest work. As the middle child of ten, Geneve learned early the meaning of loyalty, thoughtfulness, and selfless care for others. Even as a girl, she knew perseverance—walking through the snow to school with quiet courage and determination.

In her early years, Geneve worked briefly as a cook, serving others with the same generous spirit that would mark her life. Yet her true calling was as a beautician, a role that reflected her gentle touch, attentive nature, and the dignity she believed every person deserved. Through hard work and devotion to her craft, she brought confidence and comfort to many, offering not only skillful hands but also kind-hearted conversation, honest counsel, and a warm, well-timed sense of humor that made time with her feel lighter.

To her grandchildren, she was “NaNa,” a name spoken with affection and held close with gratitude. Geneve was deeply beloved and cherished—faithful in her love, compassionate in her care, and wise in the quiet ways she guided and encouraged those around her. Her resilience showed not in grand displays, but in the steady, brave way she met each season of life with grace.

Geneve was fun loving and found joy outdoors, especially in her garden, where she could be found pulling weeds and tending to what she had planted. In those simple routines lived her adventurous spirit—an openness to the day, a willingness to get her hands in the soil, and a contentment that inspired others to see beauty in the everyday.

Geneve was proceeded in death by both of her parents, Thomas Richard Hankins and Lydia Catherine Hankins, as well as all her siblings aside from her youngest sister, Jo, and two grandchildren, Cynthia Rae Keel and Jerry Lee Keel Jr., and a beloved husband, Paul O. Wood.

She leaves to treasure her memory daughters Rita (Rich) Ahrendt, Sandra (Jerry) Keel, and Patti Diane Johnson. Grandchildren, Joseph (Kelly) Steward and Cassie Keel. Great-great grandchildren Ethan Steward, Kyra Derington, Anastasia and Charlie Hansard.

She will be deeply missed by those that cherished her most, and her memory will remain a lasting blessing—rooted in devotion, gentleness, generosity, and love.