Benny Wood

Benny Ross Wood, age 78, a resident of Baton Rouge, passed away on August 6, 2020. Ben cherished memories of his youthful years in Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana, but it was Newellton, where he grew up with his brothers and sisters, attended grammar school, and learned to play clarinet that he would always consider his home. The clarinet led him to play proudly for the Golden Band from Tigerland and fueled his love for music of all kinds - opera, classical, and contemporary. An avid LSU fan, he excitedly planned tailgates on campus and made the trek to Tiger Stadium. Though he enjoyed his Saturday nights in Death Valley, what he loved most of all was being at home. Nothing pleased him more than sitting in his recliner while Astrid fixed food to satisfy all his ever-changing taste buds and never-failing love of chocolate pie, biscuits and gravy, and other Southern delicacies she learned to cook. Most important to Ben was family and the time spent with them. Throughout his vested career with the federal government, he lived with his wife and children in many places – all the while giving them a solid foundation through his dedication and hard work to build a meaningful life. He was treasured for his robust laughter, honest words, strong will, family pride, and unconditional love. His legacy lives on in memories of his days in our presence.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Astrid Wood; 2 daughters, Shellie Marie Leach and husband Trent, and Stella Elizabeth Wood; 2 grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by parents, Raymond Stanley and Stella Barclay Wood; and siblings, including 6 sisters and 2 brothers.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be sent to St. Jude Children’s Hospital at www.stjude.org or a cancer charity of your choice.

A public visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 12, 2020 from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm at Resthaven Funeral Home in Baton Rouge. A graveside service will be held Saturday, August 15 at 2pm at Legion Memorial Cemetery in Newellton, Louisiana.

The family requests that family and friends please refrain from sending flowers for the graveside service.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note for the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com.