CMSgt Billie J. 'Bill' Wood's Obituary
PERRY-
Billie J. "Bill" Wood passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, January 26, 2015, surrounded by his loving family. A Graveside Service will be held on Friday, January 30, 2015, at 2:00 p.m. at The Pavilion at Andersonville National Cemetery. The family will visit with friends on Friday, January 30, 2015, from 12 noon until 1:00 p.m. at Watson-Hunt Funeral Home. Friends and family who would like to remember Bill may honor him with donations to Heart of Georgia Hospice, 103 Westridge Drive, Warner Robins, GA 31088.
Bill was born November 16, 1934, to the late Jennie and Carl Wood of Taylorville, Illinois. He married his bride of 57 years, Judith D. Wood, on April 26, 1957, and the two traveled the world as he proudly served in the United States Air Force for 23 years, mainly in ECM, where he rose through the ranks to Chief Master Sargent after 18 years. Their two daughters, Wendy J. Ledbetter and Lori S. Abercrombie, both of Perry, were blessed by the experiences he shared with them as they traveled around the country and overseas. Eventually settling in Perry, Bill shared his love of camping and fishing with his growing family of grandchildren, ever ready with a new motor home or fishing boat, fishing poles, and camera. Golfing was a favorite past time for he and Judy, as well. He enjoyed being behind the lens of a camera at family gatherings and leaves behind a treasure trove of memories in family movies and photographs.
Bill's illness over the past few years was the toughest battle he faced, and he was courageous, kind, and gracious to all who came in contact with him. For his wife, children, and grandchildren, he was a role model, inspiration, and truly a hero to his family.
During his Air Force career, Bill worked in electronic warfare, primarily on B-52s during the Vietnam War. Later, he was tasked to assist with the development of the B-1 bomber at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, prior to his retirement. His military service took him and his family to many bases throughout the United States and overseas to England and Okinawa. He served solo tours in Thailand, as well. Bill dedicated his career to serving his country, which he loved. He never compromised his honesty or integrity. During his military service, he earned the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Air Force Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster. Bill retired from the Air Force in 1977. After working for the Raytheon Company for 11 years, he launched his own company, Aircraft and Electronics Associates, in 1990. He was a past member of Perry Country Club and The Association of Old Crows. Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved son-in-law, John A. Daugherty; and a granddaughter, Autum F. Daugherty.
Survivors also include his sister, Cynthia C. Dauria of Booneville, MS; his grandchildren, Jennifer M. Bowen (David) of Cochran, John A. Daugherty, II (Kristian) of Elko, Jason W. Daugherty of Perry, Brandon T. Daugherty of Perry, Lindsay R. Abercrombie of Port St. Lucie, FL, Mathew P. Abercrombie (Sarah) of Macon, and Spring C. Dutra (Randy) of Prescott, AZ; and his great-grandchildren, Johna G. Bowen, Emilie M. Bowen, John A. Daugherty, III, Lucas B. Daugherty, and Zachary P. Daugherty.
The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Norbert Jackson, Bill's friend and caregiver, and Heart of Georgia Hospice. Condolences for the family may be left in the online guestbook at www.watsonhunt.com. Watson-Hunt Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
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