Earl McDonald Wood

Earl McDonald Wood was born on June 24,1941, in Baltimore, Maryland. He was the youngest son of the late Emmett Franklin Wood Sr. and Eleanor Virginia Wood. Earl graduated from Douglas High School where he demonstrated a natural talent for mathematics. He often proudly shared with family members that he helped his sister, Ernestine, pass her college algebra course and according to her it was absolutely true. Earl always had a youthful appearance. While many of his friends looked 17 or 18 years upon graduating high school, Earl could easily pass for 13 or 14. Believing his youthful looks might make it difficult to find employment he chose to enlist in the United States Army rather than attend college. After three years of honorable service, he returned to civilian life, passed the postal service exam, and began a successful career with the United States Postal Service. Earl loved his work, and his fellow employees encouraged him to become their union leader. Known to his colleagues as "Woody" he carried out his union responsibilities with professionalism integrity, and dedication. Earl was a caring and devoted son, father, uncle, and friend. When his mother was in her late 90's and living independently in her senior apartment, he visited her daily to prepare breakfast and assist with errands. Family meant everything to Earl. Whenever there was a gathering or family reunion within the Wood or Parker Family, he made every effort to attend until illness limited his ability to do so. Even then, he would eagerly ask visitors who attended, who was recognized, and what took place. Hearing family news always brought a smile to his face. Earl shared a particularly close bond with his late sister, Dorothy Grogan. He admired his older sister, and for a brief period they even worked together at Spring Grove State hospital. Earl loved bowling and baseball, and he regularly bowled in a league alongside Dorothy, Emmett Jr., and Vandeliea Parker. During Dorothy's later years, Earl faithfully transported her to dialysis treatments three times a week and made sure she was safe and comfortable until her passing. Earl and his late brother, Emmett Wood Jr., also shared a special relationship. Before illness affected their routines, they met weekly for breakfast at McDonald's or lunch at Double T Diner. In their younger years, they often met at a local track to enjoy leisurely walks while catching up on family and community news. Earl and his sister Ernestine were only a year and a half apart in age and remained close throughout their lives. He consistently encouraged her, acknowledged her accomplishments, and offered support whenever she needed it. Whether she was facing challenges related to school, family, work or church, Earl was always there. In return, Ernestine became his dedicated visitor and advocate throughout his stay at FutureCare. He will be greatly missed by her. Earl married Christine Foster Wood and expanded his family with the addition of a son and daughter. His son, Corbin, married Sherie Purdey Wood. Earl also leaves behind his beloved grandson, Devin Davis. Earl adored his grandson, and the feeling was mutual. Devin fondly recalls, "Poppa Earl used to pick me up from school when I was a kid, right before my dad got off work. One think about Poppa Earl--he never made his bed. I would tease him and say "Poppa Earl, what did I tell you about this bed?" and he would always reply, 'I know, I know.' Even when I was in trouble at home, he would still let me watch TV." Corbin, Earl's son, passed away at the young age of 35. During a time when Earl was adjusting to a diabetes diagnosis, Corbin faithfully cared for him and helped him manage his diet and medications. Corbin's passing was a tremendous loss and a heartbreaking blow to Earl. Earl was immensely proud of his daughter, Arika, who attended college in Atlanta, Geogia. He closely followed her progress and accomplishments, and their relationship brought him great joy. She visited him regularly during his stay at the nursing home, and they remained connected through phone calls and text messages. He adored her, and loved him dearly. His nieces, and nephews also held a special place in their hearts for him, largely, because Earl enjoyed spirited debates on nearly any topic- -politics, sports, finance, or life in general. They cherished their summertime and holiday visits with him and often joked, "I think Uncle Earl is secretly a Republican." Despite his health challenges, Earl rarely complained. Family and friends remember him as a witty, intelligent, and honest man--a quiet truth-teller with a slightly sarcastic sense of humor and a warm heart. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Randolph Parker and Earl's two nieces, Eleanor (LaVarne) Williams and Vanessa Rhodes, for their care, support, and assistance during his later years at FutureCare. Earl will be deeply missed by his sister, daughter, grandson, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and all who knew and loved him.

Tributes

Earl McDonald Wood

June 24, 1941 - June 1, 2026