GREENPOND :     Mr. Richard B. Wood passed away Wednesday evening, August 25, 2021 at his residence in Greenpond, under hospice care, with his family and his two devoted caregivers by his side.  He was 75.

Richard was born in Walterboro October 28, 1945 a son of the late Berkley C. Wood and Hilda Hickman Wood.  He attended  Walterboro High School, where he was captain of the football team, and after graduating on a Friday…he and his brother Donald established Wood Brothers Store in Greenpond the following Monday.  Throughout the years he was a fixture at the store, and served his community in countless ways.

Richard and his brother owned and operated Wood Brothers Construction and Wood Brothers Wrecker Service.  In 2005 Richard's son Richie became his partner, and Wood Brothers Inc. was established.  Throughout his life, Richard was a man that emphasized hard work and honesty. After his official retirement he continued to be involved with the business, but was reluctant to receive a paycheck.  His family jokingly told him that in all honesty he was owed thirty-five years of vacation pay he never used

In 1972 Richard became the youngest magistrate in the State of South Carolina. For thirty-three years he handled disputes in Colleton County, always listening to both sides of a case…and rendering decisions that were fair and unbiased. Over the years, he helped countless people in ways that will never be known to the average person…often causing individuals to turn their lives around, and become positive influences for others. He received The Order of the Palmetto from Governor Mark Sanford for his dedicated service to his community and state.

Richard was a charter member of the Greenpond Baptist Church, and was also a charter member of the Greenpond Volunteer Fire Department.  He was devoted to his workers and to his family.  He was both stern and caring…and his presence will truly be missed.

Richard is survived by his children Richard B. "Richie" Wood Jr. (Amy) of Greenpond, and Tammy Wood Bryan (Greg) of Walterboro.  He leaves behind his devoted brother Donald A. Wood (Bobbie) of Greenpond, and his grandchildren Reagan Herndon Reichle (Brandon), Ryan Brady Herndon, and Braden Richard Wood.  He also leaves behind to cherish his memory his best friend and "almost daughter" Katrina Drew.

In consideration of the current situation that currently exists with the coronavirus, and with the health and safety of the community in mind, the family will hold a private graveside service.  Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to either the Connie Maxwell Children's Home, or to the MUSC Children's Hospital.  Parker-Rhoden Funeral Home, 117 Paul Street in Walterboro is in charge of arrangements.