Dr. Thomas Oval Wood's Obituary
On Wednesday, February 16, 2022, Dr. Thomas Oval Wood, M.D. died peacefully surrounded by his family. He was 81 years old. Tom was born on September 16, 1940, in Kansas City, MO to the late Wilford Oval and Gladys Britton Wood.
Tom is survived by his wife June Mitchell Wood, whom he met in college, and their 3 loving daughters, Ellen Wood Williams of Atlanta, GA, Julie Wood Reagan (Lea Manhein) of Collierville, TN, and Ann Wood Ray of California, MD. He was the proud grandfather of 9 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild who affectionately called him by his favorite name, “Pappy.” He is also survived by his siblings Betty Lou Hassell of Murray, KY and James Owen Wood of Lecanto, FL, and their families. He was an avid snow skier, golfer, and world traveler; he was very proud of his Scottish heritage. Tom was a longtime member of Lindenwood Christian Church.
At age 8, Tom’s family moved to Memphis, TN where he attended school at Vollentine, Snowden, and Central High. He graduated from Memphis State University in 1961 and The University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine (UT) in 1965. He completed his internship in 1966 and his residency in ophthalmology in 1969, both in Memphis. In 1970, he completed a corneal transplantation fellowship in Gainesville at The University of Florida.
Among his many achievements, Tom was honored to be a member of the American Ophthalmological Society. He was a former president and medical director of the Mid South Eye Bank for Sight Restoration. He was also a professor of ophthalmology at UT. Tom was actively committed to and involved in advancements in ophthalmology through his daily practice, research, and education, locally, nationally, and internationally. As an ophthalmic surgeon at UT Medical Practice Group and in private practice, Tom used his gifts of knowledge and skill to restore sight to many people.
Our family would like to thank the staffs of Allen Morgan and Compassus Hospice for their care of our beloved Pappy. Pappy’s family will hold a private celebration of his life. Donations in Tom’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Trezevant Foundation, or a charity of your choice.
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