Lowell Leslie Wood Jr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lowell Leslie Wood Jr, a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many with his kindness and selflessness. Leslie was a true embodiment of what it means to be a great guy, always going above and beyond to help others in any way he could. Leslie was born February 9, 1950, in Stratford, Oklahoma, to Lowell Leslie Wood Sr. and Susie (Hottel) Wood, the fourth of eight children. He passed away December 13, 2023, in Oklahoma City at age 73. Leslie graduated from Stratford High School with the class of 1968 and married Lana Turner in 1969. From this union they had two children, Dianne and Cody. In 2005 Leslie married Donna Walls and gained another son, Billy, and daughter, Kristin. He was preceded in death by his dad, Lowell, in 1992, his mom, Susie, in 2017 and his brother Gerald in 2022. Survivors include: his wife, Donna, of the home; daughter Dianne Mann and husband Shawn of Stratford; daughter Kristin Williams of Stratford; son Cody Wood and wife Becky of Stratford; son Billy Nix and wife Jessica of Arkansas; sisters Sue Brown and husband Don of Stratford; Nelda Lee and husband Jimmy of Stratford; Nancy Pike and husband Bud of Stratford; Debbie Korzan of Stratford; and Marsha Milligan and husband Lindell of Pernell; one brother Greg and wife Carolyn of Ardmore; 14 grandchildren and many cousins, nieces and nephews he loved very much.

Throughout his life, Leslie dedicated himself to making a positive impact on those around him. Whether it was lending a listening ear, offering a helping hand or providing words of encouragement, he was always there for his family, friends and even strangers. His compassion knew no bounds, and his generosity knew no limits.

Leslie had a genuine passion for serving others. He volunteered at various community organizations, dedicating countless hours to making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. His commitment to helping others was truly inspiring, and his impact on the community will be felt for years to come. Leslie spent his entire life in the Stratford Round Up Club; six years in the United States Army Reserves, beginning in 1970; 25 years with the Stratford Fire Department (12 of those years as chief); 15 years serving with the Stratford ambulance service-EMS; and six years with the Town of Stratford. Leslie spent almost 40 years with CM Mays Lumber in Stratford and loved interacting with and helping people. He especially loved his coworkers and all the close friends made throughout the years.

Beyond his acts of kindness, Leslie had a joyful spirit that was contagious. He had a knack for bringing smiles to the faces of those around him, and his positive energy lit up every room he entered.

He had a way with animals that was rare, his calm nature and patience would settle even the orneriest animals. This gift was tested at least once a year when Shawn would bring mules for shoeing, pulled from the pasture, only being handled each September for a Wyoming elk hunt. The look over his glasses and concerned grin was priceless. Leslie always got the job done, no matter what.

Whether it was through his witty sense of humor or his ability to find joy in the simplest of moments, Leslie had a way of brightening even the darkest of days.

Leslie’s legacy of compassion and selflessness will forever be cherished. He leaves behind a profound impact on the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Although his physical presence may no longer be with us, his spirit will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched. Leslie was never known to speak a negative word about anyone.

In honor of Lowell Leslie Wood, let us remember the importance of helping others, spreading kindness, and living a life filled with love and compassion. May his memory serve as a reminder to us all to be the best versions of ourselves and to always lend a helping hand to those in need.

Rest in peace, Leslie. You will be dearly missed, but your legacy will continue to inspire us all.

-A special thank you to David Hottel who came by almost every day to comfort and visit Dad, it meant so much. You were a bright spot during some dark times.

-To Monty Hasley who has been such a close friend, many trips to visit and always made Dad smile.

-Tasha for always having Dad’s back and taking care of many things for him while he was away. You are very much appreciated.

-John Grien, John Jolley and Eddie Watson, we can’t thank you enough for the visits, the concern, the things we know you handled and also the things we will never know about.

-Ladies of the Stratford church of Christ, the weekly cards always made Dad smile and we appreciated them very much.

-Town of Stratford coworkers, your sacrifices and unselfish giving of your time was so nice. Dad loved you all -To the many other friends and family: your calls, visits, gifts and prayers meant so much to Dad and all of us. Your kindness and concern will never be forgotten.

-Bill and Linda Jones, thank you so much for all you’ve done. Words can’t express the appreciation we have for you. You are family.

-To the doctors, nurses and staff at the Oklahoma Heart Hospital North, Oklahoma City Rehabilitation and PAM Health Medical Center: thanks so much for everything you did for Dad and all the love and kindness you showed to him and our family during these tough times. You all are wonderful people.

Services were held December 18, 2023, at the Stratford High School auditorium.