Thomas Fredrick Wood

Thomas Frederick Wood, 71, of McMinnville, Tennessee, passed away on February 23, 2025, following a sudden illness. Born on August 28, 1953, Thomas was a man defined by strength, integrity, and unwavering dedication to his faith, family, and the great outdoors.

Tom married the love of his life, Betty Virginia Hardcastle, on March 28, 1980. Together, they built a life rooted in hard work, adventure, and devotion to each other, their family, and their faith. As a proud longtime member of Central Church of Christ, Tom lived his values every day, offering genuine kindness, wise guidance, and support to everyone he encountered. He led by example, earning respect through his actions and treating everyone with fairness and dignity.

He is preceded in death by his loving parents, Norman and Violet Wood. Tom is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 45 years, Betty Wood; his devoted son, Adam Wood, and daughter-in-law, Haley; and his two cherished granddaughters, Lyla and Layten Wood, who were the joy of his life. He also leaves behind his siblings, Norma (Arthur) Myers and Dave (Karen) Wood of McMinnville, and Sue Lampley of Dickson; sister-in-law, Peggy Hardcastle; brother-in-law, Floyd Hardcastle; and numerous nieces and nephews who will carry his memory forward.

A retired Tennessee Wildlife Officer with over 30 years of service, Tom devoted his career to protecting the beauty of nature and sharing his deep respect for the wilderness with those around him. An avid hunter, fisherman, published photographer, farmer, and skilled woodworker, he found joy and peace in the natural world. His craftsmanship, whether through his photography or woodworking projects, reflected his patience, precision, and love for nature’s simple, enduring beauty.

A true outdoorsman and a quiet leader, Thomas was a man who led by example—never loud, but always present, offering wisdom when it mattered most. He was a problem-solver, a steady hand in tough times, and a superhero in the eyes of his family and friends. A wonderful husband, father, and the world’s best grandfather, his legacy will live on through those fortunate enough to have known his love, strength, and guidance.

He will be missed terribly by all who had the privilege of loving him, but his spirit will continue to inspire and guide us every day.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 28, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at High Funeral Home. Additional visitation will take place on Saturday, March 1, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Central Church of Christ followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. The family will hold a private interment at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Churches of Christ Disaster Relief, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, or Gospel of Christ.

Online condolences may be left at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.