Virginia Faye Wood, 91, Reeds, Missouri, affectionately known as Ginny, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 21, 2025, at her home. She was born on June 8, 1933, in Sarcoxie, Missouri, the daughter of the late Loren Rudolph “George” Whitaker and Emma Helen (Oliver) Whitaker.
Ginny was a proud 1951 graduate of Carthage High School, where she cultivated a love for learning and community. After graduation, she dedicated her life to her family as a homemaker and was an integral part of the family farm. Ginny’s hands were rarely still, as she found joy in tending to her flowers, nurturing her garden, and caring for the cows. Her love for the outdoors was evident to all who knew her, as was her passion for yard work, which kept her active and engaged with the land she cherished. She married the love of her life, Marion Gay Wood, on January 29, 1952, in Carthage, Missouri, and together they shared 66 wonderful years together until his passing on December 10, 2018.
Her heart was always full when it came to her family, whom she loved above all else. Ginny leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to her children, Melissa Jane Wood and her husband Jim Barbato of Pittsford, New York, and Harold “Robert” Wood of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She was a cherished grandmother to Denise Barbato and Jim Barbato, Jr., both of Fairport, New York, and a proud great-grandmother to Anthony and Paige Barbato, also of Fairport. Her sister, Charlotte Walker of Tucson, Arizona, along with many extended family members and friends, will fondly remember Ginny’s loving spirit and friendly demeanor.
Ginny attended the First Presbyterian Church in Webb City, Missouri. Ginny’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. Her faith-filled presence was a comfort and inspiration to her church community, and her commitment to living a life of kindness and service was unwavering. Those who knew Ginny would describe her as loving, hardworking, faith-filled, and friendly. She had the unique ability to make everyone around her feel at home, and her warm, welcoming nature was a gift to all who had the pleasure of her company.
Graveside services will be held at 11 am, Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at Dudman Cemetery, Carthage, Missouri. Memorials are suggested to the Carthage Humane Society in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.
