Mark Wood

Mark Stephen Wood, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on April 3, 2024, at the age of 65 in Baytown, Texas. Born on November 21, 1958, in Houston, Texas, to Jean Stephen Wood and Sarah Slayton Wood, Mark's life was a testament to hard work, love for family, and a passion for life's simple pleasures.

Raised in Baytown, Mark spent the majority of his life in the community he cherished. For 35 years, he served diligently as a process operator, later becoming a supervisor at Exxon, dedicating himself to his profession with unwavering commitment. Mark's dedication extended beyond his career; in his younger years, he worked at the zoo, a job he fondly reminisced about throughout his life.

A true Texan at heart, Mark was an avid football enthusiast, with a special affection for the Oilers of yesteryears and the Texans of today. Beyond sports, Mark was a devoted "trekkie," finding solace and joy in the imaginative worlds of Star Trek and all things sci-fi.

Mark's greatest joy, however, was found in the company of his family. He took immense pride in watching his children and grandchildren excel, particularly on the sports field. A firm believer in self-sufficiency, Mark imparted valuable lessons to his sons, teaching them the importance of hard work balanced with enjoying life's moments.

Renowned for his wisdom and practicality, Mark lived by the motto, "work hard, but don't work your life away," a sentiment that resonated deeply with all who knew him. His love for good food and endless cups of coffee brought joy to countless gatherings and conversations.

Mark is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Melinda McCall. He is survived by his three sons, Wes Wood (Jennifer), Whitney Wood (Alexis), and Nathan Wood; sister Shauna Hartwell (Mark); cherished grandchildren, Addie, Emmah, Ella, Collins, Blaine, and Willow Wood; along with numerous relatives and friends.

A visitation to honor Mark's life will be held from 10:00-11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 8, 2024, at Pace Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton, Texas, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Ryan Cemetery in Tarkington.

Pallbearers for Mark will be his sons, Wes, Whitney, and Nathan Wood, along with Oscar Chapa and Austin Coleman. Honorary pallbearers will include John M. Harris and the Exxon Lube Oil Tank Farm Staff from 1981-2015, reflecting the respect and camaraderie Mark fostered throughout his career.