James “Jimmy” Beverly Wood

December 24, 1945 – July 21, 2025

James “Jimmy” Beverly Wood, age 79 of Bassett, VA passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Monday, July 21, 2025. Jimmy was born on December 24, 1945, to the late Cecil Ray Wood and Macie Bowling Whitlock Wood. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Gerald Wood; half-brothers, Hugh Whitlock, Melvin (Chalk) Whitlock, Bobby Joe Whitlock, Francis Wayne (Rastus) Whitlock; and a half sister, Gaytha Smith.

Jimmy loved many things, but nothing more than his beloved Gladys—his soulmate, his best friend, his forever sweetheart. Gladys and Jimmy shared 46 great years together.

Jimmy retired from Bassett Chair Factory. He was a member of the Bassett and Floyd Moose Lodge, and AMVETS of Martinsville and Henry. Gladys and Jimmy attended Fairway Baptist Church.

Jimmy was most at peace with a fishing pole in hand. Nature was his sanctuary—whether in the garden, by the water, or working with his honey bees. The bees weren’t just a hobby to Jimmy—they were a part of his rhythm, a quiet connection to the world he loved so much.

Family and friends meant everything to him. Jimmy had a gift for making people feel welcome and at ease—whether he was telling a story, lending a hand, or just sitting nearby, sharing the silence. He gave his love freely, and his loyalty ran deep.

He served his country with honor in Vietnam and carried that same courage and commitment into every chapter of his life. He didn’t seek the spotlight—but anyone who knew him knew they were in the presence of someone truly special.

Jimmy leaves behind his cherished Gladys, a grateful family, and a circle of friends who were lucky to walk beside him. The world feels a little quieter without him, but also a little better for having known him.

In honor of Jimmy, take a moment to plant something beautiful, cast a line, or watch the bees at work. That’s where his spirit will live on.

Jimmy is survived by his soulmate and best friend, Gladys Hale; special nieces and family, Karen, Kevin and Nicholas Guilliams, and Kathy, Jason, Sierra and Bryar Rutrough; half sisters, Jean Davis and Sue Fulcher; half-brother, Johnnie Lee Metz (Mary Ann); sister-in-law, Catherine Wood; half sister-in-law, Jacqueline Whitlock; special friends, Angie Fackler, Otis Hale (Peggy), Mittie Thornhill, Lovella Hooker, Willie Hale and George Hale.

Funeral services will be held at Flora Funeral Chapel 2 p.m. Friday, July 25, 2025 with Pastor Hank Daniels officiating from Danville COGOP. Interment will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery. His family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.

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