Coach Richard Wood passed away on March 10, 2020 in Louisville, KY. Born February 21, 1947 in New Orleans to Richard and Alma Wood. Richard graduated from St Bernard High School and University of Southern Mississippi with a BA in History where he also played football and ran track. He graduated with a Master’s Degree in Education from University of Alabama in Birmingham, Al.
Survived by his wife of 50 years Mary Gail “Petie” Wood, his son Richard “Rick” Wood IV (Blair) of Simpsonville, KY, daughter Emily Williamson (Christopher) of Fairfax, VA, and son Jason Wood (Katie) of Durango, CO.
Also survived by four grandchildren Ellie Williamson, Max Williamson, Annabelle Wood, and Maddox Wood. Survived by his sister Carol Wood, his brother-in-law Don Ellis, sister-in-law Sherry Barto, his nephews Joshua Barto, Corey Forbes, Carey Forbes, and niece Jessica Forbes.
Richard coached and taught at Port Sulphur High School in Port Sulphur, LA (1971–1973); Jones Valley High School in Birmingham, AL (1973–1975) ; W.A. Berry High School in Birmingham, AL (1975–1978); Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, LA (1978–1988); Eleanor McMain Secondary School in New Orleans, LA (1993–1995); two separate stints at Metairie Park Country Day School in Metairie, LA (1995–2003 and 2007–2016); Cape Hatteras Secondary School in Buxton, NC (2003–2005); and South Lakes High School in Reston, VA (2005–2007). Richard retired in 2016 after more than 40 years, but he never stopped coaching us all in life.
Richard’s passion in life was teaching children of all ages about the joy and values of physical fitness. His philosophy was centered around the notion that “if you are not having fun, then do not do it.” Richard enjoyed a strong faith in his church; cherished the ocean and surfing; and loved his family joyously, who will greatly miss “Pop” and his white mustache, hugs and smiles.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Special Olympics Louisiana.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124 on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. A brief visitation will continue the following day, March 18, at 11:00 a.m. followed by the funeral service in the chapel of Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home at 12:00 p.m. Interment will be in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens, 701 W. Virtue St, Chalmette, LA 70043.
The family invites you to share your fond memories and condolences online at lakelawnmetairie.com.
