Rheta Russell Wood

Rheta Russell Wood went to be with her Lord and Savior on June 8, 2018. She was born on August 31, 1935 in her home town of Clarksville, Virginia, where she met her devoted husband, Billy. She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Bill; son David; daughter, Kelly Wood Currin and husband Perry; and three granddaughters, Cameron, Casey, and Paige. She is also survived by a brother-in-law, three nephews, and many cousins. She was predeceased by her parents, Arthur and Evelyn Russell and a sister, Joanne Martin. Rheta graduated from Longwood College in Virginia in 1956 with a degree in education and was a member of Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority. She taught in public schools at Henrico County and George Washington High School, both in Virginia, before moving to Georgia where she continued her teaching while helping her husband obtain a degree in pharmacy. She is a long time member of Hayes Barton United Methodist Church and an active member of United Methodist Women, having served on its board and as vice president. She was a member of the Wesleyan Sunday school class. Rheta spent the last years of her life devoting her time and energy to the love of her life, her three granddaughters. They all loved their “MeMe”. She enjoyed family trips to the beach, reading, a good game of bridge and long walks in the neighborhood where she met countless neighbors who became life-long friends. She always had a hug or smile for everyone and a dog treat in her pocket for her furry friends. Memorial service will be Wednesday, June 13, 2018, at 2:00 PM with visitation following the service at Hayes Barton United Methodist Church. The family requests flowers be omitted and if desired, donations be made to Hayes Barton United Methodist Church, 2209 Fairview Rd., Raleigh, NC 27608-2240 or The American Diabetes Association.