Evelyn Wood

Evelyn Hunt (Anderson) Wood January 27, 1928 – July 6, 2021

Evelyn Wood passed into the arms of her Savior on July 6, 2021, with her daughter, Jamie, by her side. She was born in the Belgian Congo, Africa (now the Democratic Republic of Congo) to Presbyterian missionaries. She spent her early childhood hearing leopards call while hunting across the valley; seeing unbelievable sunsets (gold, silver, scarlet) brought, in part, by the explosion of Krakatoa; and riding bareback on the family bull, Mutomba. Service was literally in her blood: a great-great-grandfather was an early missionary to Hawaii, an uncle and grandfather were missionaries to Korea, a nephew was a missionary to Brazil, and a cousin gave 10 years to the Peace Corps in Taiwan. Evelyn was stranded in the United States during World War II while her parents returned to the Congo to complete several more terms of service. She attended Maryville College in Tennessee, earning a Bachelor of Science degree. For thirty years, she taught elementary physical education, arts, and crafts for the Dade County School System here in Florida. Additionally, she wrote instruction manuals for the school system as well. Upon retirement, Evelyn moved to Gilchrist county with her husband. She was one of the original members of the “Joyful Hearts” group of women meeting weekly for crafts, quilting, food and fun. Though Evelyn no longer belonged to a church denomination, she tried to instill in her children and others, the love of God and all His wondrous creation; and a conviction that His Son, Jesus, can ensure our spending eternity in God’s presence. She appreciated the friends, and neighbors who always made her feel loved and welcomed. Evelyn was preceded in death by a son, Kim B’Smith, and her husband, Mitchell F. Wood. She is survived by daughter Dorothy Lynn (Dunn) Williams and husband John Williams. Evelyn is survived by son Kit B’Smith and his wife Carolyn (Rose) B’Smith. She is also survived by daughter, Jamie (B’Smith) Mathis, who cared for her the last several years of her life. Evelyn leaves behind 2 great-great grandchildren; 4 great- grandchildren, and 11 grandchildren. Evelyn had requested that friends and family not send flowers instead, donate to their favorite animal cause in her memory. If anyone would like to leave a message for the family, go to https://www.crevassesimplecremation.com/obituary/evelyn-wood