Robert L Wood

Robert (Bob) Wood of The Villages, FL passed away on Tuesday, September 28, 2021. Bob passed quickly and peacefully with his girls by his side, just like in life. He was born in Dearborn, MI and lived in Howell, Brick, and Toms River before settling into retirement in the Villages, FL. Bob was predeceased by his wife, Barbara Wood, his parents, James and Theresa Wood, and his brother, Jim Wood. He is survived by his sister, Terry Commodore; his two daughters, Jennifer and Melissa; his son-in-laws, Brett Hudson and Chris Russo; and his five grandchildren, Robbie, Brendan, Brinley, Adam, and Hannah; and the numerous friends and relatives whose lives were enhanced just by knowing him.

In the 68 years we had him, Bob created and lived a full life dedicated to his family. While those who knew him were lucky to have the time we were given, there were still so many more memories and stories and laughter to be had. Bob was larger than life, and the best-of-the-best. He was the life of the party, a true family man, and steadfast in his faith. He was an advisor, a story-teller, a counselor, and a best friend to many. His laughter was infectious, his hugs were steady and strong, he always knew the right thing to say, even if the right thing to say was a dad joke. Despite working more than one full time job, Bob never missed a choir concert, an art show, a science fair, or an opportunity for a late night cram session or a trip to the library to work on a big project (even if he forgot to bring his glasses). Bob was selfless – he spent a large portion of his life caring for his wife, and was a rock for his daughters when the world felt very unsteady. What could have been a dark time, turned into memories of card games, lawn mowing, football, video games, and BBQs. At first glance, people would think that Bob’s retirement was all about golf, bowling, and happy hour – deep down these activities, and Bob’s entire life, was driven by his commitment to spend time with the people he loved, respected, and enjoyed to his core. Bob was a planner and had every detail of every party on a clipboard. And while sometimes he fumbled (with an apple pie in hand) the laughter that erupted from the rooms he was in will ring through our own homes as we remember him. Saying goodbye will never be easy, but we should all live as he did – forging ahead, with a smile, and hugging those you love tightly.

A memorial gathering will be held at Anderson and Campbell Funeral Home, 703 Main Street in Toms River on Friday, October 8th from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. Anderson and Campbell can be reached at 732-349-5700. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, October 9th at The Church of Epiphany, 615 Thiele Road in Brick, NJ. Burial to follow at the Saint Joseph's Cemetery in Toms River. In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to the Church of Epiphany, 615 Thiele Road, Brick, NJ 08724, (732) 458-0220 in memory of Bob Wood, or to Catholic Charities at https://www.catholiccharitiestrenton.org.